Texas House Bill HB2755

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to student financial assistance for certain students of WGU Texas or similar online nonprofit colleges or universities.

Impact

If enacted, HB2755 would amend the Education Code by adding Section 56.009, establishing a clear pathway for financial support tailored to students enrolled in online nonprofit institutions. This support can potentially increase access to higher education for students who have proven financial need and reside within Texas, encouraging more individuals to pursue online degrees that meet the state's workforce development goals. Furthermore, it signals a recognition of the importance of online education as a valid and critical mode of learning in today's digital age.

Summary

House Bill 2755 focuses on providing financial assistance to students enrolled in WGU Texas and similar nonprofit online colleges or universities. The bill aims to establish a grant program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, specifically for students attending institutions that offer competency-based, exclusively online or distance education. This provision is particularly significant in a time when online education is growing rapidly and offers flexibility for non-traditional students seeking further education without the burdens of traditional tuition models.

Contention

While the bill is designed to assist students in achieving higher education goals, there may be points of contention regarding the eligibility criteria and the prioritization of funding. Critics could argue that limiting grants to nonprofit institutions could disadvantage students attending for-profit online universities. Additionally, concerns regarding the quality of education provided through these online programs and whether they truly meet the diverse needs of students may arise. Legislators might debate the effectiveness of the proposed study of state-funded financial assistance programs as well, questioning whether the selected institutions offer sufficient educational value.

Next_steps

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with creating specific eligibility requirements for the grant program and initiating a study on state funding for these educational programs. This process includes consultations with stakeholders from various educational institutions, indicating that the bill will have a collaborative approach in its implementation. Ultimately, the passage of HB2755 could reshape the landscape of higher education financial aid in Texas, supporting a growing shift towards online learning.