Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2081

Filed
1/24/25  
Out of House Committee
4/24/25  
Voted on by House
5/2/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/8/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/13/25  
Governor Action
5/26/25  

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 at public and private institutions of higher education.

Impact

The bill amends the Education Code by introducing a new subchapter dedicated to the Building Better Futures Program. This program aims to provide financial assistance and resources to eligible institutions for facilitating specialized programs that cater to the educational needs of students with disabilities. The eligible institutions must meet certain criteria, including federal approval and the development of selective admissions for the program, ensuring that students can learn in an inclusive environment. The direct impact is expected to enhance educational outcomes and workforce readiness among these students.

Summary

House Bill 2081 establishes the Building Better Futures Program, designed to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities specifically for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities enrolled in public and private institutions of higher education. The bill outlines the purpose of the program, regulations for institutions wishing to participate, and the eligibility criteria for students. This initiative represents a significant step towards inclusive education by acknowledging the unique needs of students with disabilities and ensuring that they have access to appropriate training and support.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2081 has been generally positive, particularly among advocates for individuals with disabilities. Supporters view this legislation as a crucial advancement in educational access and equity. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of tailored educational programs that accommodate diverse learning needs. However, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to successfully implement the program across various institutions, which could affect its overall effectiveness.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the need for sufficient funding to support the initiatives proposed in the bill. Critics may question whether the financial support allocated to the Building Better Futures Program will be enough to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities effectively. Additionally, there might be debates regarding the institutional accountability and the quality of programs offered, as well as the long-term sustainability of the funding sources. These factors could influence the robustness of the program and its ability to deliver the promised educational benefits.

Companion Bills

TX HB2917

Same As 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 at public and private institutions of higher education.

TX SB1679

Identical 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 at public and private institutions of higher education.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1679

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 at public and private institutions of higher education.

TX HB2917

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 at public and private institutions of higher education.

TX H1448

Creating higher education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental disabilities

TX SB159

Relating to an education and training program for certain public transportation vehicle operators on interacting with and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

TX LD46

An Act to Establish a Grant Program to Increase Postsecondary Educational Opportunities for Students with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder

TX SB186

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX S0176

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

TX H5280

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

TX S2349

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

TX H8161

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

NJ A2359

Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.

NJ S1480

Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.

NJ S1504

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

NJ A2133

Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.

TX HB5180

Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.

CA AB2771

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA SB372

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: exemptions.