Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2483

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

Caption

Relating to a maximum tuition rate under a fixed tuition price plan.

Impact

If enacted, HB2483 will amend the Texas Education Code and impact how tuition fees are structured at affected institutions. By providing a fixed tuition strategy, the bill is designed to safeguard students from unpredictable tuition hikes, benefitting those who commit to attending college for an extended duration. It addresses a growing concern regarding rising educational costs and aims to make higher education more accessible and predictable for families.

Summary

House Bill 2483 aims to establish a fixed tuition price plan for undergraduate students at certain general academic teaching institutions in Texas. This proposal mandates that participating institutions offer students a fixed tuition rate for the first 12 consecutive semesters of enrollment. This includes both traditional and transfer students, ensuring stability in tuition costs during a critical period of their education. The bill defines specific conditions under which this fixed rate can be applied and what constitutes eligibility for the program.

Contention

The bill does leave room for institutions to define conditions and restrictions surrounding the fixed tuition plan, which may lead to variations in implementation across different colleges. Critics may argue that flexibility is essential in adapting to financial necessities, while supporters would advocate for the predictability it brings, especially considering the significant long-term financial implications of tuition increases on students. Moreover, the introduction of a maximum tuition rate adds a layer of protection for students, yet raises the question of how this will align with institutional funding needs.

Notable_points

Notably, HB2483 does not compel institutions to offer additional variable tuition options, which might limit choices for prospective students. The bill also states that fees charged to students under this plan cannot exceed those charged to non-participating students in similar circumstances, promoting equity among students. The establishment of a maximum tuition rate serves as a key point in the bill, signaling an effort to control educational costs in Texas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB473

Relating to providing information to undergraduate students regarding certain fixed or flat tuition rates provided by certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB683

Relating to the exemption of tuition and laboratory fees at public institutions of higher education for certain paramedics.

TX SB1350

Relating to the exemption of tuition and laboratory fees at public institutions of higher education for certain paramedics.

TX SB548

Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1976

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB438

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB2197

Relating to assistance for tuition and fees at postsecondary educational institutions for certain members of the Texas military forces.

TX SB18

Relating to the tenure and employment of faculty members at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2108

Relating to eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX SB937

Relating to eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.