Texas House Bill HB1689

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds to fund an interprofessional health education center at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

Impact

The bill is set to amend Subchapter B of Chapter 55 of the Texas Education Code, granting the board of regents of The University of Texas System expanded authority to manage financial resources effectively. This authorization allows the board to use various revenue sources, including student tuition charges, to secure the bonds necessary for funding the project. The funds may also be utilized for renovations of existing structures, thereby impacting both the construction and improvement of health education facilities.

Summary

House Bill 1689 authorized the issuance of revenue bonds totaling up to $67.8 million to fund the construction of an interprofessional health education center at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. This financial mechanism is intended to provide necessary funding for the establishment of health education infrastructure that will enhance interprofessional training among health care professionals.

Contention

Notably, the bill's potential impacts on funding allocation could raise concerns among other institutions within the University of Texas System, as the board may reallocate funds among institutions if needed. This provision suggests a prioritization of resources towards health education projects that could face opposition from stakeholders at other campuses who might seek similar enhancements for their facilities. Additionally, the framing of the bill makes it clear that it aims for immediate effect, which hints at urgency from the legislature to advance health education initiatives promptly.