Texas House Bill HB117

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to the portion of designated tuition set aside to provide student financial assistance at institutions of higher education.

Impact

If enacted, HB 117 would have a significant impact on how financial assistance is structured within Texas's higher education institutions. By mandating a percentage of tuition to be allocated for financial aid, the bill aims to ensure that more students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, have access to the resources they need to pursue higher education. The provisions for military veterans and their families reflect an acknowledgment of their service and commitment to enhancing access for this demographic.

Summary

House Bill 117 aims to amend sections of the Texas Education Code in relation to the designated tuition set aside to provide financial assistance for undergraduate and graduate students at institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill requires each institution to set aside a minimum of 15 percent of tuition collected above $46 per semester credit hour specifically for financial assistance. This assistance is designed for resident undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate financial need and includes various forms of aid such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 117 might arise from the extent to which institutions can manage their financial resources. Some stakeholders may argue against the mandated set-aside percentage, claiming that it could limit the flexibility of institutions to allocate resources as they see fit based on unique institutional needs and circumstances. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the effectiveness of requiring institutions to prioritize certain populations over others when distributing financial aid, particularly in regards to the criteria for financial need and the types of assistance provided.