Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB769

Filed
1/13/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/10/25  
Voted on by Senate
4/16/25  
Out of House Committee
4/25/25  
Voted on by House
4/30/25  
Governor Action
5/20/25  

Caption

Relating to a report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding enrollment and success in higher education for students with disabilities.

Impact

The impact of SB769 on state laws is significant, as it actively seeks to improve accessibility and enrollment rates for students with disabilities. By requiring detailed reporting and analysis, the bill aims to identify systemic issues impacting this demographic, thereby informing potential future legislative action. If implemented effectively, it could lead to increased institutional responsibility toward fostering an inclusive educational environment and may affect funding and policy decisions that promote better support mechanisms for these students across Texas.

Summary

SB769 is a legislative act aimed at producing a comprehensive report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding the enrollment and success of students with disabilities in higher education. The bill mandates that by December 1, 2027, the board must assess key metrics such as the number of students with disabilities enrolling in institutions of higher education, barriers they encounter, and the types of support services and accommodations available to them. This initiative underscores the commitment to inclusivity in education and acknowledges the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB769 appears to be generally positive, with a collective recognition of the importance of supporting students with disabilities in higher education. Advocates for the bill highlight its potential to shine a light on disparities in access and success rates. However, some concerns may arise regarding the real impact of the report and whether it will translate into actionable changes. Overall, there is a supportive attitude towards enhancing educational opportunities for students with disabilities.

Contention

While SB769 largely enjoys bipartisan support, debates may emerge concerning the practical implications of the findings from the report. Critics might argue about how effectively the proposed measures can be enforced or how funding will be allocated to address identified barriers. There is also an ongoing conversation about the adequacy of current services provided to students with disabilities and whether the report's outcomes will lead to substantial legislative reforms. The bill may open up discussions on broader issues of disability rights and educational equity.

Companion Bills

TX HB271

Identical Relating to a report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding enrollment and success in higher education for students with disabilities.

Previously Filed As

TX HB271

Relating to a report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding enrollment and success in higher education for students with disabilities.

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 SB1534

Relating to a study and report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding health physics education in this state.

TX S2349

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

TX H8161

Establishes the Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act.

TX HB5608

Relating to certain requirements regarding persons with disabilities enrolled in public institutions of higher education.

TX SB2465

Relating to a study by the Texas Education Agency and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding standardizing transcripts for public schools.

TX HB319

Relating to the interest rate for student loans issued by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

TX HB3032

Relating to a study by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in coordination with other state agencies on the feasibility of developing clinical sites for nursing students.

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.