Texas Senate Bill SB2409

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the higher education fund and the allocation and distribution of certain constitutional revenues to The University of Texas at Brownsville.

Impact

The passage of SB2409, contingent upon the approval of a proposed constitutional amendment by the 81st Legislature, is expected to enhance the financial resources available to The University of Texas at Brownsville. If the constitutional amendment allowing the university to participate in the income from the permanent university fund is approved, it will significantly improve the institution's fiscal standing, thereby furthering its educational mission and operational capacity. Such changes aim to bolster higher education infrastructure within the state, particularly for institutions that have historically faced funding disparities.

Summary

SB2409 is a legislative bill introduced to address the allocation and distribution of certain constitutional revenues specifically to The University of Texas at Brownsville. The bill outlines the framework for how higher education funds are apportioned amongst eligible institutions in Texas, starting from the fiscal year ending August 31, 2008. It establishes criteria for these allocations based on an equitable formula that takes into account factors such as space deficit, facilities condition, and institutional complexity, along with a separate distribution for the Texas State Technical College System.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SB2409 relate to the fairness of fund distribution among Texas higher education institutions. Advocates for the bill argue that it addresses longstanding inequities in state-funded education, particularly benefiting regions that have been underserved. Critics, however, may raise concerns regarding the implications for other institutions and whether such a specific allocation is the best use of state resources. Furthermore, the reliance on a constitutional amendment poses a barrier that could delay or prevent the intended benefits of the bill from being realized.