84R26313 JSL-D
By: Martinez, Herrero, Canales 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 through an interactive video classroom 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 using an interactive
video classroom to:
(A) expand medical education opportunities; and
(B) increase access to undergraduate and
graduate courses of all types; and
(2) identify possible impediments to postsecondary
distance learning opportunities, including program accreditation
requirements and the availability of funds for that purpose.
(c) Not later than November 1, 2016, the coordinating board
shall complete the feasibility study and post the results of the
feasibility study on its website.
(d) This section expires September 1, 2017.
SECTION 2. 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.