Texas House Bill HCR129

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 4/4/11
• Refer: 4/13/11
• Report Pass: 4/29/11
• Refer: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 5/20/11
• Enrolled: 5/26/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Notifying the U.S. Department of Education that certain career schools or colleges are legally authorized by the state of Texas to operate educational programs beyond secondary education.

Impact

The bill underscores the state’s regulatory framework for career schools and colleges, emphasizing that such institutions are formally recognized by appropriate state agencies like the Texas Workforce Commission and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. This affirmation could facilitate the participation of these institutions in federal funding programs, thereby potentially increasing enrollment and providing broader educational opportunities. In this manner, HCR129 aligns state legislation with federal requirements, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational access at the postsecondary level.

Summary

HCR129 is a House Concurrent Resolution from Texas that aims to notify the U.S. Department of Education about the legal authorization of certain career schools and colleges to operate educational programs that extend beyond secondary education. This legislation is particularly relevant in the context of new federal regulations that clarify the requirements states must meet for postsecondary institutions to participate in federal student aid programs. By establishing that these educational institutions are authorized under Texas law, the resolution seeks to reaffirm their eligibility for federal funding opportunities.

Contention

While the resolution is primarily declarative, it forms part of a broader legislative context where state authorization of educational programs can become contentious. Issues may arise regarding the oversight of for-profit educational institutions, including concerns over quality, student outcomes, and the handling of student loans. Critics may argue that emphasizing the legality of career schools without addressing regulatory challenges could lead to potential abuses within the system. Thus, while the resolution is seen as a necessary procedural step, its implications can extend to discussions around the quality and integrity of education offered by these institutions.