Texas House Bill HB4005

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/8/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/11/23
• Voted on by House: 4/25/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/12/23
• Voted on by Senate: 5/16/23
• Governor Action: 6/12/23

Caption

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.

Impact

The bill introduces statutory changes to the Texas Education Code to facilitate the grant program. It allows the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to administer the grant funds and establishes guidelines for eligibility, prioritizing students demonstrating financial need. This initiative is particularly significant in the context of ongoing discussions around the affordability of college education, which remains a pressing concern for many Texan families. The eligibility for the grant includes criteria such as residency and enrollment status in designated programs, creating a targeted approach to aid those most in need.

Summary

House Bill 4005 aims to tackle the rising costs of higher education in Texas by establishing the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program. This program is designed to provide financial assistance specifically targeted at students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs. By focusing on such programs, which offer more flexibility for students, particularly those balancing work and education, the bill seeks to reduce the financial strain on working families and promote access to higher education.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 4005 is largely positive among proponents who argue that it addresses critical issues of accessibility and affordability in higher education. Supporters, including various educational institutions, advocate that competency-based education is an effective solution that aligns with the workforce development needs of Texas. However, as with many educational bills, there are complexities and nuances relating to implementation and the prioritization of funding that have prompted discussions among stakeholders, hinting at a mix of enthusiasm and cautious optimism.

Contention

One notable point of contention is ensuring adequate funding and resource allocation to sustain the program long-term. Opponents might express concerns over the efficacy of the grant program in genuinely alleviating financial burdens versus merely creating more bureaucratic processes. Additionally, some skepticism exists regarding the potential limitations that the eligibility criteria might impose, which could inadvertently exclude students who do not meet specific thresholds but still face financial hardship.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 56. Student Financial Assistance
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0595
  • Section: 088
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0595
  • Section: 088
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0595
  • Section: 088
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0595
  • Section: 088
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0595
  • Section: 088

• Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
  • Section: 907
  • Section: 907
  • Section: 907
  • Section: 907
  • Section: 907