89R9002 CMO-D By: Campbell S.B. No. 2431 A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT relating to requiring foreign language credit opportunities for students enrolled in study abroad programs offered by certain institutions of higher education in this state. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter F, Chapter 51, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 51.313 to read as follows: Sec. 51.313. STUDY ABROAD: FOREIGN LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY. (a) In this section, "institution of higher education" and "private or independent institution of higher education" have the meanings assigned by Section 61.003. (b) For the purpose of providing the opportunity for students to gain proficiency in a foreign language, an institution of higher education or a private or independent institution of higher education that, through any baccalaureate degree program, offers a study abroad program in a location where a language other than English is primarily spoken shall provide an option that allows a student enrolled in the study abroad program to earn foreign language credit as part of that program. (c) The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board may establish procedures and adopt rules to implement this section. SECTION 2. Section 51.313, Education Code, as added by this Act, applies beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2025.