BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 1960
	By: Morales, Eddie (Blanco)
	Education
	5/16/2023
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

The Middle Rio Grande region is experiencing significant population growth. With that growth comes the need for expanded academic opportunities in the region. Sul Ross State University has satellite campuses in Eagle Pass, Del Rio, and Uvalde, collectively known as Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College. However, only the main campus in Alpine offers classes where students may earn a bachelor's degree.

H.B. 1960 seeks to allow for the satellite campuses in Eagle Pass, Del Rio, and Uvalde to offer bachelor's degree programs at those campuses.

H.B. 1960 amends current law relating to the course levels offered at Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 96.01, Education Code, as follows:

Sec. 96.01. SUL ROSS STATE UNIVERSITY. Provides that Sul Ross State University is a coeducational institution of higher education located in the city of Alpine, with an educational center, rather than an upper-level educational center, known as Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College operated in the cities of Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and Uvalde.

SECTION 2. Provides that this Act applies beginning January 1, 2026.

SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2023.