Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3247

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

Caption

Relating to eligibility for a TEXAS grant.

Impact

The bill aims to increase the number of students who qualify for TEXAS grants by adjusting the financial need requirements. Such a change is expected to facilitate greater access to financial aid for students, ensuring that more graduates can pursue further education without the burden of prohibitive costs. Additionally, the bill permits students who have graduated prior to a specified date to enter higher education programs more easily, thus broadening the scope of potential recipients.

Summary

House Bill 3247 introduces amendments to the eligibility criteria for receiving TEXAS grants aimed at providing financial assistance to college students. The bill specifies that applicants must demonstrate eligibility for federal financial aid but the rules surrounding financial needs will be established by the coordinating board according to section 56.3031 of the Education Code. This restructuring is intended to make the application process for grants more accessible for students in need of financial support, thereby promoting increased enrollment in higher education institutions.

Contention

Although the bill is likely to garner support for its goal of increasing access to higher education funding, some concerns may arise about the sufficiency of available resources to meet the new eligibility standards. Critics may argue that simply loosening eligibility requirements without a corresponding increase to the budget could lead to inadequate funding levels for those who qualify, potentially diluting the impact of the grants themselves. The legislative discussions surrounding the bill will likely address these financial considerations as stakeholders weigh the benefits and limitations of the proposed changes.

Companion Bills

TX SB141

Identical Relating to eligibility for a TEXAS grant.

Previously Filed As

TX SB36

Relating to the establishment and operation of the Texas B-On-time student loan program; authorizing a fee.

TX SB34

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4448

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX SB35

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2407

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4330

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX SB462

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4005

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB8

Relating to public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program.

TX HB3674

Relating to the creation of a rural dual credit grant program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

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