Texas House Bill HB3959

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/6/25

Caption

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at a public institution of higher education or a career school or college for a student meeting certain income and grade requirements.

Impact

The bill proposes amendments to the Texas Education Code to incorporate the new exemption criteria. The exemption will not only relieve tuition burdens for qualifying students but will also mandate career schools to provide similar exemptions for students who meet the same academic and income requirements. This act is expected to positively impact educational access and affordability in the state, especially for those from financially constrained households.

Summary

House Bill 3959 aims to establish tuition and fee exemptions for undergraduate students at public institutions of higher education and career schools based on specific income and academic performance criteria. Under this legislation, students who are Texas residents, with a household income below $100,000, and maintaining a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 will be eligible for these exemptions. This measure is designed to enhance accessibility to higher education for lower and middle-income students, promoting equality in educational opportunities.

Contention

While the bill is framed as a means to support students in higher education, potential points of contention may arise concerning the stipulation of a GPA requirement, which some legislators and critics might argue could inadvertently limit access for struggling students. Additionally, there may be discussions about the implications of the $100,000 income cap, balancing the intended support for needy students against concerns that those just above the threshold might also require financial assistance. This balance between inclusivity and fairness in educational funding allocation could become a focal point in legislative debates.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 54. Tuition And Fees
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 132. Career Schools And Colleges
  • Section: New Section