Texas House Bill HB360

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/21/14

Caption

Relating to in-state tuition for non-legal residents of Texas and the United States.

Impact

If passed, HB 360 would significantly affect regulations concerning resident status for non-legal residents. Prospective students will be required to provide evidence of their residency status in accordance with the new guidelines. This change may impact enrollment patterns at public and private institutions across Texas, as those unable to provide proof of lawful residency would be ineligible for reduced tuition costs until such requirements are met. The act places a strong emphasis on verification processes which could lead to an increase in administrative burdens for educational institutions responsible for assessing resident status.

Summary

House Bill 360, also known as the Texas Fair Tuition Act, seeks to modify the criteria for non-legal residents of Texas to qualify for in-state tuition at higher education institutions. The bill introduces amendments to the Texas Education Code, specifically Section 54.052, which outlines the determination of resident status. Under the proposed modifications, individuals seeking in-state tuition must establish a domicile in Texas for at least one year prior to the census date of the academic term in which they enroll. Additionally, they must maintain that domicile continuously for the year preceding the census date. The bill also emphasizes the need to prove lawful residency to access in-state tuition benefits, highlighting the importance of compliance with the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions around the balance between state educational policies and immigration status. Proponents argue that by enforcing stricter residency verification, the state can ensure that benefits intended for residents are not misappropriated. However, opponents of the legislation argue that this could exclude deserving students who have strong local ties yet lack formal immigration status. The debate emphasizes broader issues of accessibility and equity in education, as opponents contend that education should remain accessible regardless of immigration status. The contention primarily revolves around the interpretation and application of 'resident status' in educational settings.