84R10762 JSL-D
By: Martinez H.B. No. 3467
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a postsecondary distance learning feasibility study
conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter Z, Chapter 51, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 51.981 to read as follows:
Sec. 51.981. POSTSECONDARY DISTANCE LEARNING FEASIBILITY
STUDY. (a) The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall
conduct a feasibility study that explores postsecondary distance
learning opportunities in accordance with this section.
(b) The coordinating board must conduct the feasibility
study with respect to at least the Rio Grande Valley region of this
state. The study must:
(1) explore the possibility of:
(A) using technology to connect medical schools
with other medical entities in this state;
(B) allowing secondary and postsecondary
students to experience distance learning opportunities through
attendance of appropriate postsecondary courses through live,
full-motion videoconferencing; and
(C) offering virtual, interactive undergraduate
or graduate degree programs to secondary or postsecondary students,
as appropriate; and
(2) identify possible impediments to postsecondary
distance learning opportunities, including program accreditation
requirements and the availability of funds for that purpose.
(c) The coordinating board shall post the results of the
feasibility study on its website.
SECTION 2. Not later than September 1, 2016, the Texas
Higher Education Coordinating Board shall develop and begin
conducting the feasibility study required under Section 51.981,
Education Code, as added by this Act.
SECTION 3. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2015.