Texas Senate Bill SB1323

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the academic costs charged to resident undergraduate students by general academic teaching institutions and to certain reports regarding certain costs of those institutions.

Impact

This legislation could significantly affect both the financial landscape of higher education institutions and the affordability of college education for Texas residents. By limiting the extent to which institutions can raise tuition and fees when the government fails to fully fund operational costs, the bill aims to maintain a level of accessibility for undergraduate education. It mandates that any adjustments to tuition requiring legislative intervention must be clearly stated and justified, which can serve as a direct check on how institutions manage their finances in relation to state funding.

Summary

SB1323 aims to address the rising academic costs charged to resident undergraduate students by general academic teaching institutions in Texas. It introduces specific limitations on the total academic costs that can be imposed on these students, particularly in years when appropriations do not fully cover core operational costs as determined by the Legislative Budget Board. The bill establishes a clear framework for how total academic costs—including tuition and mandatory fees—are calculated, ensuring that they do not exceed certain thresholds based on legislative appropriations and institutional financial needs throughout each fiscal biennium.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the implementation and administrative burden on educational institutions to comply with these financial limitations. Critics might argue that this measure could restrict the financial autonomy of institutions, limiting their ability to respond to inflation or changes in student enrollment effectively. Furthermore, discussions surrounding the adequacy of state funding for higher education could further complicate the financial landscape, raising questions about the state’s commitment to supporting its universities in the long term.