SRC-AAA, HRD S.B. 128 75(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research CenterS.B. 128
By: Haywood
Finance
2-18-97
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, Midwestern State University (MSU) offers radiological sciences
degree via teleconferencing to Air Force personnel stationed out-of-state
at residential tuition rates.  In order to qualify for the residential
tuition rates, the Air Force personnel must have been stationed at a base
in Texas upon enrolling in the program.  Other branches of the military
have indicated interest in MSU's radiological sciences degree.  This bill
would allow MSU to offer courses in radiological sciences via
teleconferencing to personnel in all branches of the military. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 128 allows United States Army, Navy, and Coast Guard
personnel, in addition to Air Force personnel, to pay in-state tuition
fees regardless of current residency, provided that they are enrolled at
Midwestern State University in certain academic programs, and that other
conditions are met.    

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.   Amends Section 54.058(h), Education Code, to include
personnel in the United States Army, Navy, or Coast Guard, in addition to
members of the United States Air Force, stationed outside the State of
Texas who are enrolled in the bachelor of science or master of science
degree program in radiological sciences at Midwestern State University by
instructional telecommunication are entitled to pay tuition fees and other
fees or charges provided for Texas residents if they began the program
while stationed at an Air Force base, Army base, Naval base, or other
military installation in Texas as a member of the United States Army,
Navy, Air Force, or Coast Guard.   

SECTION 2.   Provides that this Act applies beginning with the fall
semester 1997. 

SECTION 3.   Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.