Relating to information required to establish resident status in connection with tuition and fees charged by public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The modifications introduced by SB850 primarily alter Section 54.052 and Section 54.053 of the Texas Education Code. By defining resident status more restrictively, the bill could significantly affect enrollment patterns in public colleges and universities, especially among undocumented students and those awaiting legal residency. The change will likely lead to higher tuition rates for non-residents, which could deter these individuals from pursuing higher education in Texas.
Summary
Senate Bill 850 addresses the establishment of resident status for individuals enrolled in public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill specifies that individuals who are not legally authorized to be present in the United States cannot be considered residents of Texas for the purposes of tuition and fees. This stipulation aims to tighten the criteria under which students may qualify for in-state tuition, a benefit traditionally available to residents of the state.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB850 focus on the implications for undocumented students and broader discussions about immigration policy in Texas. Proponents argue that the bill ensures that taxpayer-funded educational resources are reserved for citizens and lawful residents, thereby upholding state investment in education. Opponents, however, contend that such measures contribute to educational inequity and may push vulnerable populations away from pursuing higher education altogether, potentially exacerbating issues of social mobility and workforce readiness in the state.
Identical
Relating to information required to establish resident status in connection with tuition and fees charged by public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the determination of resident status of certain high school graduates by public institutions of higher education and to the tuition and fees charged by those institutions to those graduates.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private institutions of higher education.