Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.
Impact
The introduction of SB442 has significant implications for state laws concerning higher education funding and student financial burdens. By capping tuition rates based on previous academic charges, it aims to prevent steep increases in tuition that could hinder students’ access to education. Proponents argue that this approach fosters a more equitable educational environment, helping to alleviate the financial strain on students and families in Texas. The bill aligns with broader educational goals to improve retention rates and graduation rates by making college financially feasible for a larger segment of the population.
Summary
SB442 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a limitation on the total amount of tuition that public institutions of higher education in Texas can charge students. The bill introduces a new provision in the Education Code that restricts the total tuition charged in an academic year to no more than what was charged to similarly situated students in the preceding academic year, specifically for the 2017-2018 academic year. This legislative move is primarily directed towards ensuring that tuition rates remain stable and predictable for current and prospective students, thereby enhancing affordability in higher education.
Contention
As with many education-related bills, SB442 has sparked discussions around the balance of educational affordability and institutional funding needs. Some stakeholders may express concerns that setting limits on tuition could result in funding shortfalls for institutions, potentially leading to cutbacks in educational services, programs, and faculty resources. Opponents of the cap might highlight that flexibility in setting tuition rates enables institutions to respond to operational costs and inflation. The debate surrounding this bill places educational accessibility against the imperatives facing universities to maintain quality and sustainability in a changing economic landscape.
Relating to a study by the Legislative Budget Board concerning the long-term effects of regulating tuition rates and amounts charged by public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the determination of resident status of certain high school graduates by public institutions of higher education and to the tuition and fees charged by those institutions to those graduates.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.
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.