TX
Texas House Bill HB8

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB8

Filed
2/28/23  
Out of House Committee
3/27/23  
Voted on by House
4/12/23  
Out of Senate Committee
5/18/23  
Voted on by Senate
5/19/23  
Governor Action
6/9/23  

Caption

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

Impact

The proposed changes are expected to significantly alter the funding landscape for community colleges in Texas. By implementing a performance-based system, the bill aims to reward institutions that successfully guide students through their educational journeys, particularly in achieving credentials that lead to employment. Additionally, this approach addresses the unique challenges faced by rural colleges and strives to increase resources for those institutions, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes and economic opportunities for students.

Summary

House Bill 8 aims to transform public higher education financing in Texas, particularly focusing on community colleges. This legislation introduces an outcomes-based funding model, designed to allocate financial resources based on student performance metrics and graduation rates, in contrast to the previous input-focused funding system. The bill seeks to enhance funding for junior colleges and improve access to education for all Texan students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 8 has been largely positive, with strong support from educational institutions and advocacy groups. Testimonies from community college leaders emphasize the transformative potential of the bill, viewing it as a significant investment in Texas's educational future. There is recognition, however, of concerns regarding the effectiveness of funding allocations and whether the new model will adequately support diverse student needs across varying college environments.

Contention

Despite the general support for HB 8, there are points of contention related to how effectively the new funding model will meet the specific needs of all community colleges, particularly those in economically disadvantaged areas. Some legislators have expressed the need for further guarantees that funding will not solely prioritize larger institutions but will also recognize the importance of smaller, rural colleges that play a critical role in their communities. Balancing these interests while ensuring equitable access to education remains a pivotal point of discussion.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 7. State Organization
    • Section: 040
  • Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
    • Section: 0095
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0095
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0095
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0095
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0095
  • 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: 826
    • Section: 834
    • Section: 826
    • Section: 834
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0571
  • Chapter 130. Junior College Districts
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 310
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 061
    • Section: 062
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0033
    • Section: 0034
    • Section: 0051
    • Section: 085
    • Section: 090
    • Section: 310
  • Chapter 56. Student Financial Assistance
    • Section: 407
  • Chapter 136. Texas Innovative Adult Career Education Grant Program
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
    • Section: 308

Government Code

  • Chapter 2308. Workforce Investment Act
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Latest HB8 Activity

Companion Bills

TX SB2539

Identical 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.

Similar Bills

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 HB104

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TX HB2431

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TX SB1344

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TX HB2615

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TX HB5

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TX HB2203

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MS HB1434

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