Relating to the tuition and fee exemption available to certain military personnel and their dependents and to permitting those personnel to transfer the exemption to a child.
The implementation of SB845 will directly influence the Education Code in Texas, particularly regarding Sections related to tuition exemptions. By allowing the transfer of educational benefits, the bill acknowledges the sacrifices made by service members and their families, aiming to alleviate some of the financial burdens of higher education. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with establishing the necessary procedures to manage these exemptions effectively, ensuring that the intended beneficiaries can utilize these provisions optimally starting from the fall semester of 2009.
SB845, known as the 'Hazlewood Legacy Act,' aims to amend the existing regulations surrounding tuition and fee exemptions available to military personnel in Texas. The bill introduces provisions that allow honorably discharged military members to not only receive tuition exemptions but also to transfer these benefits to their children. This act recognizes the contributions of veterans and seeks to enhance educational opportunities for military families by making college more accessible and affordable for their dependents.
While SB845 has garnered support from various sectors, particularly from veteran advocacy groups and educational institutions, there are discussions regarding the potential implications on the state's educational funding. Some legislators have expressed concern about the financial strain that increased exemptions might place on higher education funding and whether this could lead to higher tuition costs for non-military students. Thus, the broader conversation around the bill highlights a balance between honoring military service and managing public resource allocation in education.