Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2163

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

Impact

The proposed legislation significantly amends the Texas Education Code to necessitate the designation of responsible personnel at educational institutions, aiming to improve the academic and socio-economic outcomes of students who are homeless or in the foster care system. The bill's provisions will enhance access to resources necessary for these students to succeed in their educational pursuits, addressing barriers related to their unique living situations. Furthermore, the legislation supports the creation of housing programs specifically aimed at prioritizing homeless students for campus accommodation during academic terms.

Summary

SB2163 addresses critical challenges faced by students enrolled in public institutions of higher education in Texas who are either homeless or who have been in foster care. The bill mandates that each institution designates a liaison officer responsible for assisting these students through their transition into and during their college education. This includes providing information on available support services, including housing, financial aid, and counseling, thereby fostering a more supportive educational environment for vulnerable populations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2163 involve the adequacy of resources dedicated to implementing its measures. Concerns have been raised about whether existing institutions can allocate sufficient funding and personnel to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the bill effectively. Supporters argue that addressing the challenges faced by at-risk students is not only a moral imperative but also contributes positively to the educational outcomes and broader societal parameters. However, opponents caution that without proper support, the bill may lead to overburdened systems that struggle to cater to these needy populations.

Companion Bills

TX HB1784

Identical Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

TX SB2281

Same As Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1784

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

TX SB2281

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

TX SB1612

Creates the "Success for Homeless and Foster Youth in Higher Education Act" requiring all public institutions of higher education to designate a homeless and foster student liaison within the institution's financial aid office

TX HB3041

Relating to measures to support the enrollment of students with a nontraditional secondary education at public institutions of higher education, including eligibility for certain student financial assistance programs.

TX HB277

Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.

TX SB165

Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.

TX SB1716

Relating to measures to support the enrollment of students with a nontraditional secondary education at public institutions of higher education, including eligibility for certain student financial assistance programs.

TX HB2476

Relating to a grant program for living expenses for certain students enrolled at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2168

Relating To The Education Of Students Experiencing Homelessness.

TX S3383

Requires tuition aid grant amounts to be equal for students enrolled in independent institutions of higher education and students enrolled in four-year public institutions of higher education.

Similar Bills

TX HB1784

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

MD HB818

Higher Education - Foster Care Recipients and Homeless Youth - Tuition Exemption and Associated Benefits

TX SB2281

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

KY HB568

AN ACT relating to postsecondary education students.

KY HB782

AN ACT relating to postsecondary education students.

CA SB685

California State University: financial aid for homeless students: pilot program.

FL S0584

Young Adult Housing Support

PA HB1748

Providing for the Pilot Program for Homeless Youth in Higher Education.