Texas House Bill HB4523

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/9/23

Caption

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

Impact

The provisions of HB 4523 will directly influence the admissions policies of public higher education institutions in Texas. With its implementation beginning with the 2023 fall semester, applicants who meet the criteria will find it easier to gain admission without the concern of previous poor academic performance affecting their applications. This change could potentially increase enrollment numbers and subsequently benefit the institutions’ funding and investment in resources for new students.

Summary

House Bill 4523 aims to amend the Texas Education Code with respect to the academic fresh start that applicants for undergraduate admission to public higher education institutions can utilize. This bill seeks to reduce the period from which past academic courses or grades may be considered from ten years to five years prior to the application date. By enabling more applicants to seek admission without the weight of old academic records, this bill intends to provide a second chance for those wishing to return to school after an extended absence.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 4523 appears to be largely positive among educational stakeholders, particularly those advocating for increased access to higher education. Proponents argue that the bill could support non-traditional students and those looking to change career paths. However, there could be dissent from traditionalists who believe that academic records should reflect a student's history regardless of time elapsed, emphasizing accountability in the educational system.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB 4523 focuses on the implications of reducing the evaluation period for previous academic performance. Critics may argue that this could lead to an influx of students who are not adequately prepared for the rigors of higher education since their past academic challenges would not be reviewed as thoroughly. Conversely, supporters advocate for the benefits of allowing students to move beyond their past and succeed academically, suggesting that an initial poor academic record is not always indicative of future potential.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
  • Section: 931

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