BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center H.B. 1412
79R6271 KSD-F By: Haggerty (Shapleigh)
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
The University of Texas at El Paso has experienced major growth over the past ten years. In 1996, when the current Swimming and Fitness Center opened, there were 15,386 students at the university. A subsequent addition was completed in the fall of 2000. Today, student enrollment is at an all-time high of 18,542. Consistent with the current campus master plan, the institution has identified new demand for indoor and outdoor recreational sports facilities. The university hired an external consultant in March 2003 to determine the need for expansion and development of the student recreation complex. Students have subsequently expressed interest in expanding their recreational opportunities and believe now is the time to pursue a student referendum.
In order for the university to meet the growing interest in sports and recreation of a rapidly growing student population it is critical that the existing facilities of the student recreation complex be expanded. Existing recreation facilities are over-used and impossible to maintain at an optimal level. The existing facilities do not accommodate the growing use or meet the current trends in collegiate recreation.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Sections 54.541(a) and (c), Education Code, as follows:
(a) Increases the recreational facility fee charged to students at The University of Texas at El Paso to a maximum of $100, rather than $12, per student per semester of 10 weeks or more, or $50 for any other term or semester.
(c) Makes conforming changes.
SECTION 2. Makes application of this Act prospective to the 2005 fall semester.
SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2005.