Texas Senate Bill SB956

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/7/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/15/09
• Out of House Committee: 4/29/09
• Voted on by House: 5/14/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Report Pass: 4/22/09
• Enrolled: 5/31/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a law school in the city of Dallas by the University of North Texas System.

Impact

This bill has the potential to significantly impact higher education in Texas, particularly in expanding access to legal education in the Dallas area. By establishing a law school, it aims to meet the growing needs for legal professionals within the region and enhance the educational infrastructure of the state. The added educational option could also stimulate local economies by providing new opportunities for prospective law students and creating jobs in academia and administration.

Summary

SB956 proposes the establishment of a new law school in Dallas under the University of North Texas System. The bill allows the board of regents to create and operate this law school as part of its higher education offerings. The institution will be authorized to administer courses leading to recognized law degrees, similar to those provided at other prominent American law schools. Initially, the law school will operate as a professional entity of the UNT System until the University of North Texas at Dallas achieves its fifth year of operation as a general academic institution.

Contention

One notable aspect of SB956 is the requirement for a feasibility study by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, which must be completed by June 1, 2010, prior to the law school's establishment. This stipulation ensures that adequate planning and resources are considered to secure the law school's accreditation. However, discussions may arise regarding the funding mechanisms, as the bill mentions the potential issuance of bonds up to $30 million, secured by pledges through revenue funds from the system. The legality and feasibility of such funding approaches may be points of discussion among legislative bodies and stakeholders.