Relating to the financial self-sufficiency of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas.
Impact
The bill's enactment is expected to have significant implications on state laws concerning the funding and management of health agencies. By pushing CPRIT towards self-sufficiency, the legislature aims to reduce reliance on state funds and enhance the operational efficiency of such institutions. The requirement for CPRIT to submit annual plans detailing its pathway to financial independence is intended to provide legislative oversight and accountability. With a clear timeline, the bill aims to transition the role of state funding in cancer research towards a more sustainable model.
Summary
SB197, filed by Senators Schwertner and Bettencourt, focuses on ensuring the financial self-sufficiency of the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). The bill mandates that CPRIT develop a comprehensive plan to transition to a state of financial independence by specifying steps to operate without state funding by September 1, 2021. This includes identifying alternative funding sources and structuring grants funded by state resources to ensure all are concluded by the stipulated date. The bill is aimed at bolstering the institute's sustainability while maintaining its crucial services in cancer prevention and research.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB197 appears supportive, particularly among legislators advocating for fiscal responsibility and efficient use of state funds. Proponents contend that financial independence for CPRIT can lead to enhanced innovation and a broader search for alternative funding, thus diversifying revenue streams for cancer research. However, some concerns have also been raised regarding the potential consequences of reduced state funding, particularly whether CPRIT would be able to maintain its current level of service and support for cancer prevention initiatives as it shifts to a self-sufficient model.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the feasibility of CPRIT achieving financial independence within the designated timeframe. Critics may question whether CPRIT can effectively secure sufficient non-state funding amidst an environment of increasing competition for grants and donations. Additionally, there are concerns about the implications of closing out state-funded grants and how that might impact ongoing research projects. Ensuring that cancer research continues to progress effectively is a paramount concern as the state shifts funding responsibilities.
Relating to the creation of the Texas Empowerment Account pilot program for assisting certain recipients of public benefits in achieving self-sufficiency.
Relating to prohibitions on the use of grant money awarded by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to procure or obtain organs from a hospital located in China.
Relating to the administration and investment of, and distribution and use of money from, certain constitutional and statutory funds to support general academic teaching institutions in achieving national prominence as major research universities and driving the state economy; redesignating the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund.
Relating to an annual study by the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center of the purchase and sale of single-family homes by certain institutional buyers.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.