Texas Senate Bill SB655

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the statutory limitation imposed on certain university systems to issue revenue bonds to fund facilities at certain institutions of higher education.

Impact

The enactment of SB655 could have significant implications for funding higher education facilities in Texas. By tying the issuance of revenue bonds to student enrollment numbers, the bill aims to promote financial responsibility and ensure that new developments respond to actual student needs. This measure is expected to be beneficial in preventing overbuilding and ensuring that educational institutions do not incur debt for facilities that may not be fully utilized, thus reinforcing fiscal integrity in university funding.

Summary

Senate Bill 655 addresses the statutory limitations on certain university systems in Texas regarding their ability to issue revenue bonds. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the Texas A&M University System and the University of North Texas System must achieve a minimum enrollment of 1,500 full-time students at specified institutions before they are authorized to issue bonds for funding facilities. This requirement applies to Texas A&M University–Central Texas, Texas A&M University–San Antonio, and the University of North Texas Dallas Campus. The aim is to ensure that there is adequate demand for the facilities being funded through these bonds.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB655 may include concerns from educational institutions about the feasibility of reaching the required enrollment numbers, especially in areas where student demographics are changing or where institutions are still growing. Critics could argue that such restrictions may hinder the ability of these universities to expand their facilities and services, potentially impacting student experiences and long-term institutional growth. Supporters, however, could contend that this is a prudent measure to ensure financial sustainability and accountable spending of public resources.