Texas House Bill HB978

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to prohibiting a public institution of higher education from considering a student's immigration status for purposes of the institution's disciplinary process.

Impact

The adoption of HB 978 would significantly affect how disciplinary cases are handled at public colleges and universities in Texas. Institutions would be required to revise their policies and procedures to comply with the new regulation, ensuring that disciplinary decisions are based solely on student conduct and not on any immigration-related factors. This could lead to increased trust among student populations who may have previously feared retribution due to their immigration status, potentially resulting in a more engaged student body.

Summary

House Bill 978 aims to prohibit public institutions of higher education in Texas from considering a student's immigration status in their disciplinary processes. The bill asserts that a student's disciplinary actions should not be influenced by their immigration status, promoting a more inclusive environment for all students regardless of their legal status. By removing immigration status from the equation, the bill seeks to ensure that all students have equal treatment under the institution's disciplinary guidelines.

Contention

While the bill promotes inclusivity and equal treatment, it may face opposition from those who argue that it could hinder institutional integrity or accountability. Some critics may raise concerns about the potential for increased behavioral issues if institutions cannot consider immigration status in their disciplinary processes. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step towards advancing student rights and ensuring that educational institutions remain accessible to all students, regardless of their backgrounds.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
  • Section: 9365