Texas Senate Bill SB1797

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of the Texas Future Scholars Pilot Program and the Workforce Shortage Education Loan Repayment Program and to the elimination of certain other student financial assistance programs.

Impact

The bill amends the Education Code by adding Subchapters R and FF, establishing frameworks for both programs. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will oversee the implementation, which includes eligible criteria for students, such as enrollment in a qualifying middle school and eligibility for federal financial aid. By selecting students based on their academic performance and additional factors such as socio-economic status, the bill aims to foster greater access to higher education for underserved populations.

Summary

SB1797 introduces the Texas Future Scholars Pilot Program and the Workforce Shortage Education Loan Repayment Program. The bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and create financial incentives for students pursuing careers in fields experiencing workforce shortages within Texas. The Future Scholars Pilot Program specifically targets middle school students, focusing on those from schools with low college attendance rates and providing them with prepaid tuition units for their future college education. Students enrolled in qualifying schools will have the opportunity to receive assistance with their higher education costs upon meeting established criteria.

Contention

While SB1797 presents a forward-looking approach to addressing workforce shortages in critical fields, potential points of contention may arise regarding funding. The program relies on state appropriations and the solicitation of private donations, which brings forth questions about sustainability and resource allocation. Additionally, as the bill eliminates certain other financial assistance programs, there may be concerns over how these changes impact existing students and their access to financial aid, especially those who may not directly qualify under the new criteria.