SRC-MWN S.B. 149 77(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 149
77R1974 QS-FBy: Carona
Education
2/5/2001
As Filed


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

Currently, the statute governing Tuition Equalization Grant program
contains out-of-date or unclear language. As proposed, S.B. 149 updates
names and statutory references to clarify program requirements in light of
recent actions taken by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. 

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 Sections 61.221 and 61.222, Education Code as follows:

Sec. 61.221. TUITION EQUALIZATION GRANTS AUTHORIZED.  Authorizes the Texas
Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), rather than the Texas College
and University System, to provide tuition equalization grants to Texas
residents enrolled in any approved private Texas college or university,
based on student financial need, but not to exceed a grant amount of more
than that specified in the appropriation by the legislature. 

Sec. 61.222. APPROVED INSTITUTIONS.  Requires the THECB to approve only
those private or independent colleges or universities that are private or
independent institutions of higher education as defined by Section 61.003,
rather than associations, agencies, institutions, and facilities, or are
located within this state and meet the same program standards and
accreditation as, rather than comparable to, public institutions of higher
education as determined by the THECB. 

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2001.