Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB639

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the eligibility requirements for admission of undergraduate students to a general academic teaching institution.

Impact

The modification of Section 51.805 of the Education Code represents a significant shift in admission eligibility, potentially widening the pool of applicants and allowing more students to demonstrate readiness for college through alternative educational pathways. By specifying that students can gain admission if they complete a satisfactory high school curriculum, the bill supports students who may not fit strictly within existing qualifications yet have shown competence in their educational endeavors.

Summary

House Bill 639 aims to amend the eligibility requirements for undergraduate student admissions into general academic teaching institutions in Texas. The primary focus of the bill is to adjust the criteria under which a student, who does not qualify for admission via existing provisions, can still apply based on successful completion of the high school curriculum that meets the institution's rigorous content requirements. This change aligns with efforts to create more accessible pathways to higher education for diverse student populations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB639 appears to lean towards a pro-accessibility stance, with advocates applauding its potential to broaden participation in higher education. Supporters argue that revising the admission criteria helps address disparities in educational access, particularly for those from underrepresented backgrounds. However, some concerns were raised about how these changes may affect the academic standards of institutions and whether this bill accommodates the evolving educational landscape without compromising quality.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions on academic rigor versus accessibility. While proponents of the bill argue that it enables more equitable access to higher education, critics may assert that modifications could dilute academic standards. The bill's passage hinges on balancing these pivotal aspects, ensuring that while more students can apply to colleges, the quality of education remains high. Implementing these changes effectively will require ongoing dialogue among educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the higher education system.

Companion Bills

TX HB874

Duplicate Relating to the eligibility requirements for admission of undergraduate students to a general academic teaching institution.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4578

Relating to limitations on the automatic admission of undergraduate students to general academic teaching institutions.

TX SB2538

Relating to limitations on the automatic admission of undergraduate students to general academic teaching institutions.

TX HB3993

Relating to the automatic admission of students with a nontraditional secondary education to certain public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1504

Relating to the automatic admission of students with a nontraditional secondary education to certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4523

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

TX SB518

Relating to the consideration of standardized test scores as a factor in nonautomatic admissions decisions at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX SB200

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

TX SB64

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

TX SB25

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

TX SB708

Relating to certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.