TX
Texas House Bill HB3486

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3486

Filed
3/3/23  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to higher education curricula, including course enrollment and credit and degree and certificate programs.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3486 would impact multiple aspects of higher education regulations in Texas, primarily relating to course enrollment, transfer processes, and compliance with state educational standards. The bill introduces provisions for institutions to report non-transferable credits and outlines a clear process for concerns and disputes regarding the application of transferred credits to degree requirements. This legislative move aims to make the higher education system in Texas more efficient, while also safeguarding the rights of students to receive full credit for their educational achievements.

Summary

House Bill 3486 aims to enhance the process of transferring academic credits for students moving from one institution of higher education to another in Texas. By amending various sections of the Texas Education Code, the bill builds on the foundation laid by Senate Bill 25, which focused on improving transparency and understanding for students regarding their credit transfers. The bill emphasizes the importance of providing equal academic opportunities for students and emphasizes the role of the commissioner of higher education in dispute resolution regarding credit transfer denials, streamlining the processes involved and ensuring that students are informed of their rights.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3486 generally leans towards optimism, particularly from educational advocacy groups and representatives who support educational reforms aimed at improving student experiences. Testimonies presented in committee discussions reflect a shared consensus on the necessity of streamlined transfer pathways for students. However, there may be some contention regarding the implementation of these policies, especially regarding how well institutions will adhere to the new requirements and the resources available to effectively manage the increased administrative tasks.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve concerns over institutional compliance and potential resistance from some colleges and universities that may perceive the increased oversight as an infringement on their autonomy. Critics of the bill may worry that the complexities surrounding credit transfer processes could create additional burdens on institutions, which may not have the resources to fulfill the requirements laid out in the legislation. Furthermore, there is a broader discussion on whether standardizing policies will truly enhance student mobility or if it will overlook the unique needs of various educational institutions.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 29. Educational Programs
    • Section: 908
    • Section: 908
  • Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
    • Section: 4033
    • Section: 4034
    • Section: 4033
    • Section: 4034
  • Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 822
    • Section: 823
    • Section: 826
    • Section: 834
    • Section: 823
    • Section: 834

Companion Bills

TX SB1887

Identical Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

Previously Filed As

TX SB3039

Relating to the transfer of students in public higher education and to transparency regarding certificate or degree program requirements.

TX SB1887

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

TX HB8

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

TX HB2203

Relating to curriculum and end-of-course assessment requirements for high school graduation, including the establishment of a workforce certification program and the elimination of certain tax discounts to fund the program.

TX SB2847

Relating to measures to accelerate the award of bachelor's degrees, including the establishment of the general education curriculum advisory committee, and to the number of semester credit hours required for the core curriculum for certain bachelor's degree programs at a public institution of higher education.

TX SB2539

Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.

TX HB4499

Relating to the governance of public institutions of higher education, including review of curriculum and certain degree and certificate programs, the powers and duties of a faculty council or senate, training for members of the governing board, and the establishment of the Office of Excellence in Higher Education.

TX SB37

Relating to the governance of public institutions of higher education, including review of curriculum and certain degree and certificate programs, a faculty council or senate, training for members of the governing board, and the establishment, powers, and duties of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Office of the Ombudsman.

TX HB2628

Relating to the development and alignment by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board of curricula for certain educational programs.

TX SB3

Relating to public high school graduation, including curriculum and assessment requirements for graduation and funding in support of certain curriculum authorized for graduation.

Similar Bills

TX HB4018

Relating to measures to facilitate the transfer, academic progress, and timely graduation of students in public higher education.

TX SB25

Relating to measures to facilitate the transfer, academic progress, and timely graduation of students in public higher education.

TX HB3025

Relating to measures to facilitate the timely completion of degrees by students of public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1887

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1923

Relating to measures to facilitate the transfer, academic progress, and timely graduation of students in public higher education.

TX HB4019

Relating to measures to facilitate the transfer, academic progress, and timely graduation of students in public higher education.

TX SB2122

Relating to the coordination of the transfer of course credit between public institutions of higher education.