Texas Senate Bill SB2182

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/30/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/6/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09
• Voted on by House: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/27/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to an environmental service fee at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The legislation directly impacts the education-related funding landscape by creating an additional source of revenue aimed specifically at environmental initiatives. This fee would allow institutions to fund projects aimed at improving sustainability on campus without reducing existing financial support designated for such initiatives. Importantly, any excess revenue generated by the fee can only be allocated to further environmental improvements or planning, ensuring that the funds are dedicated solely to these purposes.

Summary

SB2182 introduces an environmental service fee that public institutions of higher education in Texas may charge their students, contingent upon approval through a majority vote in a general election held at the institution. The bill aims to promote environmental improvements by allowing the collected fees to be used for services that relate to recycling, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and ecological maintenance. It sets specified limits on the amount charged, aiming to make it a modest contribution from each student during their enrollment.

Contention

While the bill emphasizes student governance in determining the application of the fee, it opens a point of discussion regarding how these additional costs might affect students financially. Proponents argue that the benefits, particularly regarding campus sustainability and student engagement in environmental stewardship, outweigh the minimal fees. Critics, however, might contend that even small additional fees could disproportionately impact low-income students, making affordability a key consideration within the discourse surrounding the bill.