H.B. 1206 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 1206
By: Dukes
Public Education
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

It is important to provide middle, junior and high school students with
information about higher education options that are available to them so
that they are able to make informed decisions about their future. To this
end, House Bill 1206 requires schools to designate one week of the school
year as "Higher Education is in Your Future Week", wherein information
regarding higher education options will be disseminated. There will also
be information given about requirements for admission to institutions of
higher education and there will be discussions on the availability of
financial aid and the requirements for obtaining that aid.   


RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not grant any additional
rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency or
institution. 


ANALYSIS

House Bill 1206 amends the Education Code to create Higher Education is in
Your Future Week. Schools will designate one week during the school year
to promote higher education. The week will emphasize available higher
education options; requirements for admission to institutions of higher
education; availability of financial aid; and guest speakers shall also be
invited to make presentations about career options that require higher
education.  

This Act applies beginning with the 2003-2004 school year.


EFFECTIVE DATE

Upon passage, or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act
takes effect September 1, 2003.