BILL ANALYSIS
By: Haggerty
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The University of Texas at El Paso has experienced major growth over the past 10 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 fall 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
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1 - Sections 54.541(a) and (c), Education Code, are amended to authorizes the board of regents of the University of Texas System to charge each student enrolled at the University of Texas at El Paso a recreational facility fee not to exceed $100 per student for a term or semester of 10 weeks or more or $50 for any other term or semester.
The recreational facility fee may not be increased unless the amount of the increase is approved by a majority vote of those students participating in a general student election called for that purpose.
SECTION 2 - This change in law begins with the 2005 fall semester.
SECTION 3 - Effective date.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Act takes effect immediately if it receives two-thirds vote approval of all members elected to each house. Otherwise, this Act takes effect September 1, 2005.