Texas Senate Bill SB1727

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/26/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/5/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Report Pass: 4/26/11
• Engrossed: 5/5/11
• Refer: 5/9/11

Caption

Relating to a fixed tuition rate program for certain students who transfer to a state university after completing an associate degree program.

Impact

The bill affects the Texas Education Code by amending it to include provisions for a fixed tuition rate for transferring students. Under SB1727, general academic teaching institutions are authorized to design programs that guarantee admission and fixed tuition rates for students who successfully complete an associate degree. This initiative is expected to enhance student retention and reduce financial uncertainty associated with transferring schools, thereby encouraging more students to pursue higher education degrees.

Summary

Senate Bill 1727, filed by Senator Zaffirini, establishes a fixed tuition rate program for students who transfer to a general academic teaching institution after completing an associate degree at a lower-division institution of higher education. The bill aims to facilitate the transfer process for students by guaranteeing them admission and a stable tuition rate. The primary goal is to promote access to higher education by providing a predictable financial framework that allows students to plan their education costs effectively.

Contention

While the bill promotes accessibility and financial predictability for students, it may spark discussions around state funding priorities and the allocation of resources between different institutions of higher education. Some opponents may argue that a fixed tuition rate could lead to higher costs for new incoming students or place a financial strain on the institutions if not managed correctly. The effectiveness of the program will depend significantly on how individual institutions implement these policies and how they balance their budgets while providing financial support to transfer students.