Texas House Bill HB5146

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/26/23
• Voted on by House: 5/2/23

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5146 will have significant implications for state laws regarding educational programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It will introduce new criteria for institutions of higher education wishing to participate in this program, including the requirement to obtain approval from the U.S. Department of Education for their programs. The bill outlines the responsibilities of these institutions to not only provide educational opportunities but also to ensure that students complete programs that are specifically designed to meet their needs, enhancing their prospects for future employment.

Summary

House Bill 5146 seeks to establish the Building Better Futures Program in Texas, aimed at enhancing educational and occupational skills training for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This program is designed to facilitate the delivery of resources necessary for participating institutions of higher education to create inclusive and supportive environments for these students. The importance of creating tailored educational programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities is emphasized, as Texas is currently viewed as lagging in comparison to other states in providing these necessary supports on college campuses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5146 appears to be predominantly positive among advocates for individuals with disabilities. Testimonies from proponents suggest there is a strong consensus on the necessity of expanding access to meaningful educational resources for this demographic. Representatives from organizations like the Arc of Texas have highlighted the importance of improving higher education access for students with intellectual disabilities, positioning the bill as a critical step toward achieving equitable educational opportunities.

Contention

While support for HB 5146 is strong among advocates, there may be some contention regarding the specifics of its implementation and funding. Concerns could arise about whether the resources allocated to this program will be sufficient and whether institutions will be able to meet the rigorous standards set forth in the bill. Additionally, the bill does not allow for credit hours completed under the program to contribute towards an associate or baccalaureate degree, which may lead to debates about the overall effectiveness and reception of the program among educational institutions.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

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