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27 Document(s) [ Subject: Student%20aid ]

Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Financial investments | Foreign investments | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Hinson-Hazlewood College Student Loan Program | Investment of public funds | Job training programs | Permanent University Fund | Russia | School discipline | Student aid | Teacher retention | Teacher retirement | Teacher Retirement System of Texas | Teacher shortages | Teacher training | University finance | Veterans | Workforce |
Library Call Number: L1836.88 Ed84hh
Session: 87th R.S. (2021)
Online version: View report [98 pages  File size: 10,030 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following:
  • SB 1102, 87th R.S. relating to the establishment of the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Program to support workforce education; and
  • SB 1295, 87th R.S. relating to financial support and incentives for comprehensive regional universities.
2. Review progress toward the goals of the 60x30TX plan, including institutional strategies for responding to changing workforce needs and demands, including workforce education, industry certification, and degree programs to address healthcare shortages.
3. Examine factors that have contributed to the rising costs of higher education, including the effect of statutory tuition and fee waivers and exemptions, the cost of compliance with state and federal mandates, and the increase in the number of non-faculty staff. Make recommendations for controlling these costs and ensuring a sound fiscal approach to managing college affordability for the future.
4. Evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the state’s teacher workforce and current practices to improve the recruitment, preparation, and retention of high-quality educators. Explore the impact of the educator preparation program regulatory environment. Make recommendations to improve educator recruitment, retention, and preparation throughout the state. (Joint Charge with Committee on Public Education)
5. Review the impact of investments of endowment and other trust funds, including the Permanent University Fund, by university systems and institutions of higher education in businesses and funds owned or controlled by the Russian government or Russian nationals, and determine the need for investment restrictions. Consider the impact of any proposed investment restrictions on fund performance.
Committee: Senate Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Career preparedness | Community college enrollment | Coronavirus | Education Agency, Texas | Job training programs | Permanent University Fund | Student aid | University athletics | University enrollment | University finance | Workforce | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:
Session: 87th R.S. (2021)
Online version: View report [47 pages  File size: 1,392 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Workforce Education: Evaluate state efforts to support access to work-based learning and microcredential opportunities, including apprenticeships, industry-based certificates and certifications, as well as competency-based education. Assess the potential benefits of expanding access to work-based learning, apprenticeships, microcredentials, and industry-based certifications that are aligned to workforce needs and provide in-demand workforce skills and competencies. Evaluate existing resources and programs at institutions, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Education Agency, and the Texas Workforce Commission to support these opportunities and ultimately reach Tri-Agency goals. Consider recommendations to standardize these programs in order increase postsecondary degree completions.
2. Enrollment Trends: Study the postsecondary enrollment trends across all sectors and levels of higher education in Texas, with a review on specific challenges to enrollment. Consider the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on direct high school-to-college enrollment, first-time college enrollment, transferability, and retention rates, as well as the overall impact on community college enrollment. Make recommendations on specific methods to address disparities and pandemic impacts relating to enrollment trends in order to achieve Texas' higher education goals in building a Talent Strong Texas.
3. Funding Permanent University Fund: Review the history and use of the Permanent University Fund for the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University, and explore the creation of a new legacy fund to address the needs of all other higher education institutions in Texas. Make recommendations on methods to streamline other existing research funds and finance research academic institutions in Texas.
4. Teaching and Health Care Workforce Participation: Review financial aid and scholarship opportunities in Texas related to teaching, health care, and law enforcement, and examine methods to increase participation in these and other high-demand fields. In particular, study the participation rates of the Math and Science Scholars Loan Repayment Program, the Peace Officer Loan Repayment Program, and the Nursing Corps Loan Repayment Program, and make recommendations on ways to increase participation rates in each area.
5. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Higher Education passed by the 87th Legislature, as well as relevant agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction. Specifically, make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, or complete implementation of the following:
  • SB 1102, 87th R.S., relating to the establishment of the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Program to support workforce education;
  • SB 1230, 87th R.S., relating to establishing the Texas Commission on Community College Finance;
  • SB 1385, 87th R.S., relating to the compensation and professional representation of student athletes participating in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education; and
  • HB 3767, 87th R.S., relating to measures to support the alignment of education and workforce development in the state with state workforce needs, including the establishment of the Tri-Agency Workforce Initiative.
Committee: Senate Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Adult education | Graduate-on-time programs | Higher education | Student aid | Student loans | Student transfers | University graduation rates |
Library Call Number: L1836.86 Ed83h
Session: 86th R.S. (2019)
Online version: View report [32 pages  File size: 739 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Data Transparency: Explore methods to improve data sharing and transparency among state agencies, school districts and charter schools, and higher education institutions. Consider best practices to increase the ability of high schools and higher education institutions to support student post-secondary access and degree completion and how to provide policymakers with data on each. Recommend methods of integrating existing data systems at the K-12 and higher education levels to provide real-time support and direction for students.
2. Adult Learner Students: Examine existing innovative programs in higher education institutions that assist non-traditional students in completing a degree or credential, including first-time adult learners, re-enrolling students, first generation students, working adults, and at-risk students. Provide recommendations on methods the state can use to partner with higher education institutions to expand successful programs throughout the state.
3. Monitoring: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Higher Education passed by the 86th Legislature, as well as relevant agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction. Specifically, make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, or complete implementation of the following:
  • SB 16, 86th R.S., relating to a student loan repayment assistance program for certain full-time peace officers in this state;
  • SB 25, 86th R.S., relating to measures to facilitate the transfer, academic progress, and timely graduation of students in higher education;
  • SB 1757, 86th R.S., relating to student loan repayment assistance under the math and science scholars loan repayment program. Examine other methods and make recommendations to promote and expand teaching as a profession in Texas;
  • HB 3808, 86th R.S., relating to measures to facilitate the timely graduation of an attainment of marketable skills by students in public higher education. Consider and recommend methods to increase work-study and apprenticeship programs throughout the state; and
  • SB 810 (85th Legislature), relating to open educational resources. Report on the effectiveness of the Open Educational Resource Grant Program on college textbook affordability.
Committee: House Defense and Veterans' Affairs
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Base realignment and closure | Federal funds | Hazlewood Act | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | Real estate agents | Student aid | Veterans |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 D361
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [122 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Explore how encroachment (environmental, technological, and architectural) impacts the vital missions of our military bases in Texas and which policies can be put into place while retaining respect for private property rights, economic growth, and the operation of military facilities.
2. Explore adding notifications to the Texas Real Estate Commission Seller Disclosure Form, as well as a notification to buyers of new home construction, in order to inform buyers that a property may be located near a military installation or a military airport and could be affected by high noise or its air installation compatible use zones, or other operations.
3. Study the long-term viability of the Hazlewood Act, in particular the legacy tuition exemption provision. Review eligibility requirements and recommend changes to ensure that the program can remain solvent. Examine the costs of the program to institutions of higher education, including foregone tuition, additional infrastructure, administrative and instructional support costs, and the financial impact on nonveteran/legacy students. Analyze and report any effect changes to this program would have for veterans and their families. Review current data systems related to this exemption and recommend improvements to ensure quality and accuracy of information. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Higher Education)
4. Assess ways the State of Texas can further aid our federal military installations and their communities in order to minimize the negative consequences of a potential forthcoming BRAC round by the federal government.
5. Assess the continuing effect and the impact of sequestration and federal defense spending on Texas military bases, soldiers and their families, base communities, and Texas defense contractors. Identify solutions to address issues raised by federal policy.
6. Analyze whether unnecessary, redundant or punitive barriers exist for Texas Veterans pursuing educational or occupational careers upon completion of their military service. Study and ensure that appropriate measures are in place to allow veterans to receive the maximum college credit benefit for their service-related training in the armed forces.
7. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee: Senate Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Bachelor's degrees | Career preparedness | College preparatory curriculum | Community college finance | Community colleges | Curriculum | Dual credit high school programs | Early college high schools | English as second language | Higher education affordability | Medical education | Nursing education | Student aid | Student loans | Teacher quality | Teacher retention | Teacher shortages | Teacher training | Tuition | Tuition deregulation | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 Ed83h
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [93 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. HB 5 Implementation, 60x30TX/Higher Education Alignment: Monitor the ongoing implementation of HB 5, 83rd R.S., and examine current projections for preparation of Texas high school students for postsecondary education and workforce training. Examine best practices and recommend strategies to align the implementation with the 60x30TX higher education plan, including, but not limited to, dual credit, credit transferability, and fields of study. (Joint Charge with Senate Education)
2. Performance Funding for GAIs and Community Colleges: Study current funding methods for both general academic institutions and community colleges, examining current performance-based methods of funding for community colleges. Review funding methods used in other states and make recommendations on how to incorporate and/or change student outcome measures in institutional funding to benefit students and promote the education needs of a rapidly growing and changing workforce.
3. Tuition Deregulation and Student Debt: Examine and make recommendations regarding tuition and student debt at public institutions of higher education in Texas. Specifically, study how Texas compares to peer states, variance between institutions, how accountability measures can be used to impact tuition, and increases in tuition since 2003.
4. Tuition/Fee Waivers, Tuition Set-Asides, Financial Aid: Conduct a review of all tuition and fee waivers and exemptions, as well as tuition set-asides currently in law, and examine how students who do not receive the benefits of either bear these resulting costs. Study how other states treat similar populations, whether federal benefits are available, and make recommendations to ensure the efficacy of waivers and exemptions, and tuition set-asides. Examine current financial aid programs, studying their efficacy, and make recommendations on how to provide programs to meet the needs of all students in light of the recent repeal of the state's Top 10% Scholarship program and B-On-Time program.
5. General Academic Institution(GAI)/Health Related Institution(HRI) Funding: Conduct a comprehensive review of funding for GAIs and HRIs, examining whether the methodology for funding the same courses is equitable and productive. Make recommendations on how to update and streamline the current funding methods, to provide a consistent methodology that focuses on student success and innovative strategies. Include in the review a focus on tuition-revenue generating special items and formula and research funding for new medical schools.
6. Baccalaureate Degrees at Community Colleges: Study regional workforce needs in the state and make recommendations on whether metrics should be applied to authorize public community colleges to offer certain baccalaureate degrees in order to meet the regional workforce needs.
7. Monitoring Charge: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Higher Education and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following: 1) Initiatives designed to create effective, clear transfer pathways for students, including the newly enacted multidisciplinary studies associate degree; 2) Implementation and progress of the Math and Science Scholars Loan Repayment Program; and 3) The progress of the pilot program enacted by the 83rd legislature relating to improving student loan default rates and financial aid literacy among postsecondary students.
8. Teacher Preparation, Retention, Shortages: Study teacher shortage and retention issues in Texas and evaluate educator preparation programs to determine if these programs are preparing educators for the rigors of the 21st century classroom. In particular, examine the shortages of ELL, special education, and STEM educators across the state and identify the issues creating a shortage. Make recommendations to improve educator preparation throughout the state and increase certification rates. (Joint Charge with Senate Education)
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Community college finance | Community college students | Community colleges | Hazlewood Act | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Nontraditional students | Sex crimes | Student aid | Tuition | Veterans |
Library Call Number: L1836.84 Ed84hh
Session: 84th R.S. (2015)
Online version: View report [100 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Conduct a review of current funding formulas for community colleges. Specifically, focus on the elements of the instructional funding structure created by the 83rd Legislature: core operations, student success points, and contact hour funding and also the adequacy of state funding to sustain community colleges in light of the variance in resources available to individual colleges. Make recommendations for possible changes to the funding structure of community colleges or changes in the levels of current funding given the future workforce and higher educational needs of the state. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
2. Review the state's community college system, including a discussion of taxing districts, service areas and any barriers to access. Examine the governance structure to ensure that campuses in multi campus districts that are outside of a college taxing district receive fair and equitable treatment. Review the accounting and reporting requirements of community college districts to ensure open government and transparency. Study ways community colleges could offer accessible and affordable baccalaureate degree programs in areas where the state has a significant workforce shortage without compromising quality of education and training. Make recommendations to maximize efficient student pathways and to offer more affordable educational opportunities such as through dual credit and early college start programs.
3. Study the affordability and accessibility of undergraduate college education in Texas, including a focus on middle-class students. Analyze the cost of attendance and tuition rates, comparing Texas institutions to their national peers. Review the availability and effectiveness of financial aid programs, and analyze student debt and default rates. Study and recommend ways to promote timely and cost efficient graduation.
4. Study current policies and initiatives at institutions of higher education, including community colleges, and make recommendations toward the prevention and elimination of sexual assault on college campuses. Identify, evaluate, and recommend reporting mechanisms to ensure that students have safe, appropriate, and accessible avenues for reporting sexual assault. Study the existing campus support systems in place for students who are victims of assault, and provide recommendations of best practices. Evaluate the effectiveness of current policies and make recommendations to support the prevention and elimination of sexual assault at institutions of higher education in Texas.
5. Study the long-term viability of the Hazlewood Act, in particular the legacy tuition exemption provision. Review eligibility requirements and recommend changes to ensure that the program can remain solvent. Examine the costs of the program to institutions of higher education, including foregone tuition, additional infrastructure, administrative and instructional support costs, and the financial impact on nonveteran/legacy students. Analyze and report any effect changes to this program would have for veterans and their families. Review current data systems related to this exemption and recommend improvements to ensure quality and accuracy of information. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Defense & Veterans’ Affairs)
6. Review educational opportunities for non-traditional students, including adult learners who did not complete a secondary education credential. Recommend possible funding options to promote degree, credential, and/or certification completion. Develop recommendations to promote programs that simultaneously allow adult learners to complete degrees, credentials, and/or certifications for the purpose of promoting and increasing workforce ready graduates.
7. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature, including HB 700, SB 18, HB 100, and the new higher education strategic plan for Texas as proposed by the Higher Education Coordinating Board, 60x30TX. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Advanced Placement programs | Capital construction assistance projects | Distance education | Foster care | Higher education affordability | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Student aid | Student loans | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.83 Ed84hh
Session: 83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version: View report [47 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the potential of recent technology-enabled innovations for dramatically increasing the number and diversity of students who may access, participate and succeed in quality higher education, including Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), Synchronous Massive Online Courses (SMOCs), blended courses that combine online and classroom instruction, and other innovations with potential to personalize the learning experience, reduce costs, and transcend the physical limitations of traditional campuses. Consider challenges and opportunities for leveraging new technologies to increase the educational attainment of traditionally underserved populations including adult learners.
2. Study new strategies for funding General Academic institutions to accelerate educational innovation and increase focus on improving student learning and success rather than seat time. Consider approaches that encourage new and more productive business models that incorporate affordable, lower-cost academic delivery models and expand the state's capacity to deliver high-quality education.
3. Study how state resources might be better used to support the success of the rapidly growing numbers of state residents who need postsecondary degrees. Evaluate current programs and policies related to financial aid, tuition assistance, waivers, and work study, and evaluate their relative impact and return on investment with regard to student enrollment, persistence, and completion. Consider how state dollars might be better used in combination with federal financial aid to promote and accelerate student success. Explore strategies and best practices for reducing student loan default rates in Texas.
4. Former foster youth have the benefit of free tuition and fees if they enroll in higher education, yet very few take advantage of this opportunity. Consider new strategies to support these youth and make recommendations to enroll and retain more foster youth in higher education. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Human Services
5. Review current capital needs in higher education. The committees shall examine past methods of financing higher education's capital needs, as well as approaches used in other states. The committees shall jointly make recommendations to address these costs in the future. In adopting recommendations, the committees should focus on methodologies that identify priority capital projects, treat institutions of higher education equitably, and uniformly share costs between the state and institutions. The committees should also examine the viability of alternatives to traditional models for funding capital projects. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
6. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee: House Human Services
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Foster care | Government transparency | Higher education | Medicaid | Mental health services | Mentally disabled persons | Mentally ill persons | STAR+PLUS program | Student aid |
Library Call Number: L1836.83 H88
Session: 83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version: View report [67 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Examine crisis resources for individuals with co-occurring mental illness and intellectual/developmental disabilities. Identify strategies to serve individuals with complex behavioral and medical needs in the community.
2. Monitor the implementation of Foster Care Redesign. Evaluate its impact on the child welfare system in areas of the state where redesign is underway, including transition from the legacy system, foster family retention and recruitment, placement stability, permanency, and child safety.
3. Monitor and evaluate implementation of SB 7, 83rd R.S., including agency preparations for the statewide rollout of STAR+PLUS.
4. Former foster youth have the benefit of free tuition and fees if they enroll in higher education, yet very few take advantage of this opportunity. Consider new strategies to support these youth and make recommendations to enroll and retain more foster youth in higher education. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Higher Education)
5. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction, including implementation of the Balancing Incentives Program and relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee: Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: 211 telephone system | Base realignment and closure | Federal budgets | Mental health services | Military and veterans benefits | Military bases | Military spending | Occupational licenses | Student aid | Veterans | Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of | Veterans Commission, Texas | Veterans employment | Veterans health care | Veterans with disabilities |
Library Call Number: L1836.83 V641
Session: 83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version: View report [38 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Investigate the impact of federal actions (including the federal government shutdown, sequestration, military force reductions, and potential base closure or realignment) on active-­duty service members, the Texas Military Department, veterans, their families, defense-­related contractors, small businesses, local governments, and state agencies.
2. Monitor and examine efforts to provide employment and workforce opportunities for veterans, service members, and their families. Make recommendations on how best to continue collaborating with and supporting our honored veterans as they re-­enter the civilian workforce, including improving employment opportunities for veterans at all state agencies.
3. Provide an update on the State Strike Force teams’ progress and recommendations on any additional steps necessary to ensure that veterans promptly receive all federal disability benefits to which they are entitled.
4. Study and make recommendations to improve access to services provided by non-­profit organizations to veterans, their families, and survivors, including examining the effectiveness, standards, and consistency of the 2-­1-­1 information and referral system for military and veteran families statewide.
5. Monitor the implementation of the veterans occupational licensure bills passed during the 83rd Legislative Session to expedite the licensure process for those who are serving, have served, or are married to someone serving our nation in uniform. Study and make recommendations to strengthen and improve state efforts to ease the transition of military veterans and their spouses into the Texas civilian workforce.
6. Monitor implementation of the veteran's mental health legislation passed during the 83rd Legislative Session, including funding to support the Military Veteran Peer Network at Department of State Health Services. Assess whether state mental health initiatives targeted to veterans and their families appropriately address Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Study and make recommendations to enhance the delivery of mental health services to veterans at the local level through the network of Veteran County Service Officers.
7. In addition to the formal Interim Charges, the VAMI Committee reviewed allegations that the VA has denied health and mental health care and manipulated waiting lists to access care. The Committee also considered whether or not the state has a role in assisting veterans in Texas with VA health care as it did with the Strike Force Teams for VA disability claims.
Committee: Senate Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Associate's degrees | Community college students | Developmental education | Distance education | Educational technology | Graduate-on-time programs | Higher education | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Immunizations | Math education | Meningitis | Nontraditional students | P-16 councils | Persons with disabilities | Student aid | Texas B-on-Time loans | Texas State Technical College | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | Undocumented immigrant students | University graduation rates | University student transfers |
Library Call Number: L1836.82 Ed83h
Session: 82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version: View report [72 pages]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study and make recommendations regarding more cost-effective funding of financial aid, including ways to restructure financial aid programs to incentivize student success, particularly among low-income students, and the efficacy of current exemptions and waivers offered to students at institutions of higher education, including in-state tuition for undocumented students. Examine student loan debt, state and federal loan forgiveness programs, and institutional default rates.
2. Study and make recommendations regarding more effective means of using technology, including the effectiveness of online learning and online coursework for underprepared students. Examine the cost and funding of online education. Examine how electronic coursework and technology impacts students with disabilities, and make recommendations to ensure all students have access to electronic materials and courses. Review and make recommendations concerning statewide or inter-system cooperation for blended and online learning.
3. Study developmental education programs in public higher education institutions. Include a demographic analysis of students who require developmental education, and identify alternative means of assessing the need for developmental education, the effectiveness of delivery of developmental education programs, and the role of P-16 councils in addressing solutions for better preparing students for higher education. Review alternative means of offering and financing developmental education courses and identify potential cost savings.
4. Examine the existing transfer systems and the potential development of a 2+2 transfer system between public junior colleges and universities. Examine the transfer of credit between degree-granting private sector colleges, public junior colleges, and public universities. Examine the impact of national, regional, and professional accrediting associations on course credit transfer.
5. Study and make recommendations regarding academic and non-academic barriers to non-traditional students, including students with disabilities. Focus on ways to restructure course and program delivery, student support services, financial barriers, and remediation and academic advising. Study and make recommendations to reduce time-to-degree, incentivize on-time graduation, and increase graduation rates to meet the goals of Closing the Gaps by 2015 and beyond.
6. Consistent with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's legislative directive to work with the Texas State Technical College System (TSTC) and other appropriate state agencies to develop a returned value funding model for TSTC, examine the benefits and challenges such an approach will have on technical education in Texas.
7. Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Higher Education, 82nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following:
  • SB 5, relating to the administration and business affairs of public institutions of higher education;
  • SB 28, relating to eligibility for a TEXAS grant and to administration of the TEXAS grant program;
  • HB 9, relating to student success-based funding;
  • HB 33, relating to measures to increase the affordability of textbooks used for courses at public or private institutions of higher education;
  • SB 1107, Relating to the vaccination against bacterial meningitis of entering students at public and private or independent institutions of higher education;
  • HB 1000, relating to the distribution of money appropriated from the National Research University Fund.
Committee: Senate Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report / Senate Higher Education Committee.
Subjects: Automatic admissions | Community colleges | Developmental education | Distance education | Dual credit high school programs | Educational technology | Flagship universities | Higher education accountability | Higher education affordability | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Job training programs | Student aid | Student transfers | Texas B-on-Time loans | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | Tuition | University finance | University student transfers |
Library Call Number: L1836.81 Ed83h
Session: 81st R.S. (2009)
Online version: View report [145 pages  File size: 1,161 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study and make recommendations regarding more cost-effective funding of financial aid, including ways to restructure financial aid programs to promote student success and the efficacy of the current $365 million in current exemptions and waivers offered to students at institutions of higher education. Examine the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and determine the impact on eligibility for existing Texas financial aid programs and on data availability resulting from the simplification. Include recommendations on how to expand the TEXAS Grant and B-on-Time programs.
2. Review community college service areas to ensure that student needs are being met in the most effective and efficient manner. Study and make recommendations to improve the productivity and cost-effectiveness of the community college/university model for producing baccalaureate degrees, including identifying proven best practices; analyzing success rates of similar cohorts of students by comparing those who begin at community colleges with those who begin at four-year institutions; and analyzing transfer issues including dual admissions programs and academic advising services to facilitate a seamless transfer from two-year to four-year institutions. Include an assessment of the role of technical and vocational training programs and their impact on jobs.
3. Study and make recommendations regarding improving developmental education, which costs the state over $100 million per year, with a focus on enhancing student success in these courses.
4. Study and make recommendations regarding the current accountability system and ways to measure student progress, faculty workload, and student advising; and to improve time-to-degree. Examine the quality of academic advising services to ensure that students are taking courses relevant to their degree program and are on path for graduation. Study and make recommendations to eliminate unnecessary or duplicative reporting requirements.
5. Examine cost drivers in higher education. Recommend opportunities for achieving cost efficiencies including reporting requirements, three-year degree programs, and community college baccalaureate degree programs. Study and make recommendations regarding more effective means of using technology, including digital textbooks and online degree programs, to improve access, enhance quality, and reduce the cost of higher education while preserving excellence.
6. Review the structure and operation of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Evaluate the board's data collection systems, including costs to higher education institutions, and make recommendations for improvements. Include an assessment of higher education reporting requirements and make recommendations to eliminate duplicate requirements and streamline reporting.
7. Review endowed funds at institutions of higher education to ensure compliance with all state laws and, in particular, the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act. Study and make recommendations for requiring all institutions of higher education to report annually to donors on the use of gifts and endowed funds. Review state laws to determine if they provide adequate oversight of these funds. Study the manner in which scholarship and other funds are given and bequeathed to institutions of higher education and make recommendations for ensuring that donors' wishes are honored while institutions are allowed appropriate flexibility with the use of the funds.
8. Review dual credit courses, including the cost of delivery, funding mechanisms, and possibility of a statewide dual credit system. This review should also include an examination of the rigor, quality and consistency of dual credit courses. (Joint charge with Senate Education Committee)
9. Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Higher Education, 81 st Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance and/or complete implementation. Specifically, focus the following, as well as tuition legislation:
  • HB 51 relating to emerging research Tier 1 universities;
  • SB 175 relating to top ten percent.
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Higher Education, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2010 : a report to the House of Representatives, 82nd Texas Legislature
Subjects: Achievement gaps | Capital construction assistance projects | College preparedness | Community college finance | Community colleges | Developmental education | Dual credit high school programs | Grants | Higher education | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Minority students | Student aid | Student loans | Student transfers | Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station | Texas A&M Transportation Institute | Texas B-on-Time loans | Texas Engineering Extension Service | Textbooks | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | University curriculum | University finance | University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston | University rankings | University student transfers |
Library Call Number: L1836.81 Ed84hh
Session: 81st R.S. (2009)
Online version: View report [80 pages  File size: 1,755 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Evaluate the state's continuing effort to close achievement gaps in success, participation, excellence, and research by 2015. Study how state public education institutions compare to peer institutions around the country.
2. Study current financial aid programs, tuition and fee exemption programs, loan repayment programs, and professional incentive programs. Evaluate the impact of need-based versus merit-based assistance. Recommend changes where appropriate to improve the alignment of these programs to meet state needs.
3. Review the structure and operation of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Evaluate the board's data collection systems, including costs to higher education institutions, and make recommendations for improvements.
4. Study and recommend strategies for improving community college participation and success. Examine the role of community colleges within the state higher education system. Include a review of programs, practices, and incentives to improve efficiency and productivity, such as expanding dual credit options, encouraging credit by examination, and improving student preparation in high school.
5. Study and recommend strategies for reducing the costs of instructional materials in higher education institutions, including electronic textbooks, open source materials, and other web-based resources.
6. Examine the state's higher education funding mechanisms, including approaches to funding capital improvement projects at public institutions of higher education. Evaluate modifications that would improve the institutions' national peer rankings and help the state to achieve its Closing the Gaps objectives, including improved community college transfer pathways and the impact of shifting the basis of the formula funding methodologies from attempted to completed hours. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Appropriations
7. Monitor the progress of the capital improvement plan and use of state funds at The University of Texas at Galveston involving the renovation and upgrade of existing facilities and the construction of new facilities. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Appropriations
8. Study the feasibility of offering an optional curriculum that emphasizes ethics, Western civilization, and American traditions to satisfy portions of the Texas Core Curriculum.
9. Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.
Committee: Senate Education Subcommittee on Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Subjects: Economic forecasts | Economy | Flagship universities | Health insurance | Higher education | Higher education accountability | Nuclear power plants | Student aid | University campuses | University graduation rates | University research | Workforce |
Library Call Number: L1836.80 Ed83h
Session: 80th R.S. (2007)
Online version: View report [112 pages  File size: 8,273 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Examine different methodologies for assessing the quality of degree and certificate programs at higher education institutions and for measuring student learning outcomes. Review current institutional performance standards and make recommendations that promote academic and financial accountability. Review the method for measuring graduation rates to determine whether alternative measures are more appropriately suited for institutions with a large percentage of non-traditional students.
2. Identify potential future economic trends and workforce needs, including those created by additional nuclear generation facilities, and identify strategies to help meet these needs.
3. Examine ways to assess and improve academic advising to help students succeed in higher education and complete their course of study and graduate in the minimum time required.
4. Study the need for new higher education institutions and make recommendations for developing a long-term strategy for creating and supporting new institutions, especially additional flagship public research universities. Explore methods for determining where such universities should be located and ensuring that such universities admit a qualified and diverse student body. Consider the state's allocation of and need for resources for medical education, including graduate medical education, geographic distribution of those resources, and the value of associating a medical school with a top-tier academic campus.
5. Study research funding and assess the research infrastructure and capabilities at higher education institutions. Make recommendations for streamlining the various sources of funding (Texas Competitive Knowledge Fund, the Research Development Fund, and the Advanced Research Program) and for developing a statewide strategy for increasing research at higher education institutions, including ways to improve research commercialization.
6. Evaluate the cost and feasibility of a range of options for providing health care insurance for students attending institutions of higher education.
7. Review the status, effects, and success or failure of higher education authorities operating under Chapters 53, 53A, and 53B, Education Code, and nonprofit corporations carrying out the functions of higher education authorities under those chapters. Make recommendations regarding any necessary changes in the statutes and administration of same. (Joint charge with Senate Finance Committee)
8. Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Subcommittee on Higher Education, 80th R.S., and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor any pending federal legislation that would impact student financial aid.
Committee: Senate Finance Subcommittee on Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Interim report
Subjects: Flagship universities | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Student aid | Texas A&M University | Texas B-on-Time loans | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | Tuition deregulation | University finance | University of Texas at Austin |
Library Call Number: L1836.80 F49he
Session: 80th R.S. (2007)
Online version: View report [81 pages  File size: 1,469 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review and make recommendations regarding the structure and organization of higher education, focusing on funding of the current higher education system, including financing capital projects for general academic institutions and for health-related institutions and changes to funding flagship research universities such as The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M at College Station. Determine the adequacy of formula funding to support basic functions as well as supporting critical statewide needs and improvements on the various methods of funding research. Reviews should include institutional structures that maximize efficiencies and incentive structures that increase the number of graduates. A review of funding formulas should also include the application of proportionality of state contributions for higher education employee health benefits.
2. Review state student financial aid programs (TEXAS Grants, B-on-Time) and provide assessment of the programs' effectiveness and future funding needs.
3. Study the effects continued tuition deregulation will have on college enrollment and accessibility.
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Higher Education, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2006 : a report to the House of Representatives, 80th Texas Legislature
Subjects: Capital construction assistance projects | Community college finance | Community colleges | Higher Education Assistance Fund | Permanent University Fund | Student aid | Texas B-on-Time loans | Toward EXcellence, Access & Success Grant Program | Tuition Equalization Grants | University buildings | University enrollment | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.79 Ed84h
Session: 79th R.S. (2005)
Online version: View report [47 pages  File size: 3,111 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Evaluate state supported financial aid programs, and whether they are structured and administered in a manner that will most effectively allow the state to meet the goals set forth in Closing the Gaps.
2. Consider formula funding models for institutions of higher education, and evaluate whether current formulas most effectively promote excellence and support the goals set forth in Closing the Gaps.
3. Evaluate accessibility to higher education, and identify whether certain areas of the state are underserved with respect to bachelor's and associate's degree programs.
4. Examine existing methods of facilities funding for institutions of higher education, and identify the most efficient means by which to allocate state resources.
5. Study community college service areas, and determine whether - and to what extent - existing boundaries should be modified to reflect population shifts or other demographic changes.
6. Review and analyze all higher education funding formulas. (Joint Interim Charge with the House Committee on Appropriations)
Committee: Senate Education Subcommittee on Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Report to the 79th Legislature
Subjects: Affirmative action | Automatic admissions | Community colleges | Developmental education | Flagship universities | Higher education accountability | Higher education affordability | Medical education | Student aid | Texas B-on-Time loans | Tuition deregulation | University admissions | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.78 Ed83h
Session: 78th R.S. (2003)
Online version: View report [259 pages  File size: 4,127 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the impact of admissions policies on enrollment in Texas public institutions and make recommendations for improving the admissions procedures, as necessary. The study should include, but not be limited to, a review of recent court decisions on college admissions policies, and an evaluation of the impact of the "Top 10%" law on college admissions.
2. Study and make recommendations on the proper role, scope, and mission of community colleges. Develop innovative approaches to incorporating the community college system into the delivery of K through 16 education. Study the feasibility of allowing community college districts to expand their service areas for taxing purposes.
3. Study developmental education programs in public higher education institutions. Identify alternative means of assessing the need for developmental education, the effectiveness of delivery of developmental education programs, and the appropriate role of developmental education.
4. Study and make recommendations to modify the student financial assistance programs to provide better incentives for students to graduate on time with better grades, such as the B-On-Time program and work-study programs, and to simplify the application process for financial aid programs.
5. Review and make recommendations relating to the adequacy of funding for graduate medical education, including funding required for professors, facilities, research programs and students. Review and make recommendations relating to increasing the number of health professionals.
6. Joint interim charge with the Senate Finance Committee: Study and make recommendations relating to the development of a statewide accountability system for higher education that is consistent with funding strategies for higher education.
7. Joint interim charge with the Senate Finance Committee: Study and make recommendations evaluating the cost of increasing the number of Tier 1 universities in Texas. Reexamine current and alternative methods of funding regional universities, community colleges, health science centers and their reimbursement for the provision of indigent health care, and universities.
8. Joint interim charge with the Senate Finance Committee: Study the budgetary impact of legislation to deregulate tuition at institutions of higher education. This study should include, but not be limited to, a review of recent tuition increases authorized by this Act, their impact on affordability of higher education, and an evaluation of the expenditure of these funds.
Committee: Senate Veteran Affairs and Military Installations
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs and Military Installations report and recommendations to the 79th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Hazlewood Act | Military personnel | Military records | Privacy | Public information | Student aid | Tuition | Tuition residency requirements |
Library Call Number: L1836.78 V641
Session: 78th R.S. (2003)
Online version: View report [112 pages  File size: 941 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the impact of recent state and federal legislation with regard to protecting the personal privacy of Veterans' discharge records.
2. Study existing language of the Hazelwood Act (Section 54.203, Education Code) which entitles wartime veterans and their children to a waiver of tuition and fees at some State-supported colleges and universities, and make recommendations, including cost estimates, on possible amendments to this Act to permit Veterans who have not fully used their entitlement under the Act to pass on residual benefits to their children.
3. Monitor the Texas Education Agency's (TEA) implementation of HB 591, 78th R.S., relating to reciprocity agreements between states concerning admissions of military personnel, and HB 261, 78th R.S., relating to instate tuition levels for military personnel.
Committee: Senate Funding Issues in Education, Interim
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Report to the 76th Legislature.
Subjects: College preparatory curriculum | College preparedness | Educational technology | Foundation School Program | Higher Education Assistance Fund | Permanent School Fund | Permanent University Fund | Recommended High School Program | Scholarships | School finance | Student aid | Textbooks | University budgets | University enrollment | University finance | University graduates | University graduation rates |
Library Call Number: L1836.75 f962
Session: 75th R.S. (1997)
Online version: View report [55 pages  File size: 2,414 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study the current status of student financial assistance and tuition exemption/waiver programs. Identify possible criteria to be considered by the Legislature in evaluating such proposals and to establish priorities for these programs in the future.
2. Review the appropriateness of current allotments, weights, and set-asides under the Foundation School Program to fund school districts.
3. Study the management, investment, and distribution of funds dedicated to public and higher education, including the Permanent School Fund, Available School Fund, Permanent University Fund, Available University Fund, and Higher Education Fund. The Committee should review the purpose of these funds and the ability of these funds to continue to meet the needs of the state.
4. Study the factors affecting undergraduate enrollment and graduation rates at public colleges and universities in Texas, and make recommendations for any necessary legislative action. The Committee should consider the costs of higher education and the availability of financial assistance to students; collaborative efforts between higher education and public education systems; and student recruitment and retention efforts. The Committee should also consider methods to effectively measure institutions' performance in meeting enrollment and graduation goals set by the Legislature.
5. Evaluate and, if needed, make recommendations to determine need and allocation of funds for higher education budget special items, medical schools and Texas A&M Service agencies.
6. Study the costs of textbooks for public schools and, if necessary, make recommendations to improve the purchasing process to ensure that Texas schools are receiving the best price possible. In its work, the Committee should examine the use of computers and other technological resources as alternative teaching aids to textbooks and consider whether these alternative resources are more economical and efficient in enhancing the learning capacities of children
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: House Committee on Higher Education, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1998 : a report to the House of Representatives, 76th Texas Legislature.
Subjects: Affirmative action | Automatic admissions | Cultural diversity | Distance education | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Hopwood lawsuit | Student aid | University admissions | University enrollment | University finance | University graduation rates | Virtual schools |
Library Call Number: L1836.75 ed84h
Session: 75th R.S. (1997)
Online version: View report [66 pages  File size: 2,311 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review the effects of the Hopwood decision and the responses to the decision by institutions of higher learning, including professional schools. Monitor the implementation of HB 588, 75th R.S., and policies of the Higher Education Coordinating Board, and assess the impacts of such measures.
2. Determine the adequacy of the plans of institutions of higher education and the Higher Education Coordination Board to accomplish projected enrollment increases over the next two decades. Determine the adequacy and cost effectiveness of the plans. Examine the contributions expected of non-traditional methods, such as reducing the number of years to degree, distance learning, and multi-institutional learning arrangements.
3. Review the use of special funds in higher education, including funds for the "back-to-basics" initiative, to ensure that they are used effectively and appropriately. Evaluate the success of the recently implemented higher education funding formula.
4. Study the trends in costs of a post-secondary education, financial aid, and family incomes; evaluate the effects on access to higher learning by persons of all socio-economic levels.
5. Review the Western Governors' University initiative and assess its potential value for Texas institutions.
6. Conduct active oversight of agencies under the committee's jurisdiction, including a review of the State Auditor's finding of material weakness in higher education administration of student financial aid programs.
Committee: Senate Education
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Senate Education Committee final report to the 75th Legislature.
Subjects: Career and technical education | College preparedness | Elementary education | High technology | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Higher Education Coordinating Board, Texas | Job training programs | Juvenile justice alternative education programs | Juvenile justice system | Legislative Budget Board, Texas | Medical education | School districts | School finance | Secondary education | Student aid | Tuition | University administrators | University enrollment | University faculty salaries | University research | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number: L1836.74 ed83
Session: 74th R.S. (1995)
Online version: View report [57 pages  File size: 2,198 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Review the role of the Texas Legislature, Texas Higher Eduation Coordinating Board, and the university systems in making changes in the governance structure of universities and implementing academic/research programs.
2. Monitor the implementation of SB 1, 74th R.S. with emphasis on the relationship established between the education and juvenile justice communities; the change in relationship between the state and independent school districts; the implementation of home-rule districts, and campus and program charter provisions; and the LBB studies on school funding special allotments and program weights.
3. Review the affordability of higher education in Texas in light of potential cutbacks in Federal student financial assistance, increases in tuition and student services fees, and recent state-funded student assistance measures.
4. Study higher education financial issues related to the projected increases in enrollment; faculty and administrator salaries; and support for research into emerging technologies and for medical schools.
5. Review educational services and training provided to non-college bound students, and make recommendations on the appropriate educational institutions to ensure that these students acquire employment skills.
6. Study the appropriate role of and relationships between the levels of education in Texas. Such relationships include elementary/secondary education and higher education, and two year and four-year institutions.
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim report
Library Catalog Title: Committee on Higher Education, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 1992 : a report to the House of Representatives, 73rd Legislature.
Subjects: Grants | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Medical education | Nursing shortages | Physicians | Scholarships | Student aid | Student loans | Texas State Technical College | Tuition | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.72 ed84h
Session: 72nd R.S. (1991)
Online version: View report [34 pages  File size: 892 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Monitor and oversee legislation enacted during the 72nd Regular and Special Called Sessions that was considered by the Higher Education Committee; Performance Audit Review Recommendations; and any agency-initiated changes.
2. Carry out budget and oversight responsibilities for all agencies, boards, and commissions listed in Rule 3, Section 15. A. Monitor and oversee documenation of salary increases. B. Verify the number and status of outcomes and outputs as identified in the Appropriations Bill (HB 1, 72nd Legislature, 1st Called Session). C. Review agencies' existing performance standards and determine whether new standards are needed.
3. Study the levels of tuition and fees at institutions of higher education across the state and the causes and effects of their increase in recent years. Monitor and coordinate with the Joint Committee on Higher Education as it pertains to this subject.
4. Study the increasing need for student financial aid in the forms of grants and loans.
5. Identify the role, mission, and benefits of Texas State Technical College (TSTC) including its role of meeting the educational needs of the area it serves, future funding, and conflicts with junior colleges.
6. Monitor and coordinate with the Joint Committee on Higher Education as it relates to formula funding and deferred maintenance at institutions of higher education.
7. Study the enrollment at professional schools to determine supply, as it relates to the demand for all appropriate professions.
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: To the speaker and members of theTexas House of Representatives, 67th Legislature : report of the Committee on Higher Education of the House of Representatives.
Subjects: Higher education | Medical education | Student aid | Student loans | Teacher certification | Teacher quality | Teachers | University faculty |
Library Call Number: L1836.66 ed73
Session: 66th R.S. (1979)
Online version: View report [102 pages  File size: 2,689 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Study present policies of granting tenure to faculty members at public institutions of higher education and determine the impact of these policies in recruitment and promotion of minority and/or young faculty, as well as on academic freedom.
2. Review the funding of medical education in Texas, comparing funding trends with other states.
3. Study teacher education as it relates to teacher certification and other related matters at public institutions of higher education in Texas.
4. Review the structure and operation of Higher Education Authorities including their actual and intended purposes and activities, along with a review of the State's statutory responsibility toward and control over existing authorities.
Supporting documents
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report - Higher education authorities
Library Catalog Title: Final report on the review of the four existing higher education authorities in Texas / [prepared for the] Legislative Budget Board, State of Texas [by Touche Ross & Co.].
Library Call Number: L1836.66 ed73ha
Session: 66th R.S. (1979)
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: To the speaker and members of the Texas House of Representatives, 66th Legislature : report of the / Committee on Higher Education of the House of Representatives.
Subjects: Community college budgets | Community colleges | Higher education | Higher education affordability | Property taxes | Student aid | Student housing | Texas State Technical College | Tuition | Tuition Equalization Grants | University buildings | University finance |
Library Call Number: L1836.65 ed83h
Session: 65th R.S. (1977)
Online version: View report [49 pages  File size: 1,711 kb]
Charges: This report should address the charges below.
1. Oversight responsibility of agency expenditures and related transactions. This function shall encompass a review and monitoring of all appropriations-related actions of those agencies assigned to this committee for appropriative purposes during the 65th Regular Session of the Legislature.
2. Study of alternative means of aiding citizens of the State in obtaining a college education. This study should review possible alternatives to the Tuition Equalization Grant program, including voucher systems and offset grant programs and should include a review of the cost implications and educational significance thereof.
3. A review of the financial necessity for and ramifications of allowing ad valorem tax funds available for higher education to be used for maintenance and renovation purposes as well as for new construction.
4. A review of alternative methods for the funding of junior colleges in Texas, including recommendations for developing a long range plan for junior college financing.
5. A study of the tuition policy of state institutions of higher education with regard to the realistic costs of education as compared to actual percentage paid as tuition. This study should include recommendations as to tuition paid not only by in-state students but by out-of-state and foreign students as well.
6. A study of the desirability of terminating mandatory dormitory residency requirements for certain students of state institutions of higher education.
7. Study the need to clarify the legal status of the Texas State Technical Institute. *
Supporting documents
Committee: House Higher Education
Title: Correspondence, Letter to Members of House Higher Education Committee from Judith Kay Wilson, February 22, 1977
Library Catalog Title: Minutes
Library Call Number: L1801.9 Ed84h 65
Session: 65th R.S. (1977)
Online version: View document [14 pages]
Committee: Joint State Involvement In and Administration of Student Loan Programs For Texas, Special, Interim
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Report, Special Interim Study Committee on State Involvement In and Administration of Student Loan Programs for Texas.
Subjects: Agricultural Loan Guaranty Program | Student aid | Student loans |
Library Call Number: L1836.65 in8
Session: 65th R.S. (1977)
Online version: View report [105 pages  File size: 3,552 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Study the options of state involvement in and administration of loan programs for students enrolled in eligible postsecondary educational institutions.
Committee: House State Scholarship Programs
Title: Interim Report
Library Catalog Title: Improving access to higher education : a report to the 64th Legislature / by the Committee on State Scholarship Programs.
Subjects: Scholarships | Student aid |
Library Call Number: L1836.63 sc65
Session: 63rd R.S. (1973)
Online version: View report [73 pages  File size: 2,911 kb]
Charge: This report should address the charge below.
1. Study and investigate the use to which the scholarship funds provided for by Section 54.01(m) of the Texas Education Code have been committed; the committee shall investigate the collection and administration of the scholarship funds and the methods used to determine which students qualify for the scholarships, and shall suggest criteria to determine need.

* This represents an abstract of the report contents. Charge text is incomplete or unavailable.

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