BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                     H.B. 1748

79R6595 KSD-F                                                                                               By: Giddings (West)

Education

5/19/2005

Engrossed

AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

African American history, and the contributions of Blacks to the greatness of this nation, have been under emphasized in the curriculum of our educational institutions.  Lawmakers and educators should ensure that there are courses available in African American studies.

H.B. 1748 requires the governing board of a public junior college district located in one or more counties with a substantial African American population to evaluate the demand for and feasibility of establishing an African American studies program or other course work in African American studies at one or more junior colleges in the district. 

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 Subchapter A, Chapter 130, Education Code, by adding Section 130.0103, as follows:

Sec. 130.0103.  AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES PROGRAM OR COURSE WORK.  Requires the governing board of a public junior college district located in one or more counties with a substantial African American population to evaluate the demand for and feasibility of establishing an African American studies program or other course work in African American studies at one or more junior colleges in the district.  Authorizes the governing board, with approval of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, to establish an African American studies program or other course work in African American studies at any of those colleges if the governing board determines that such a program or course work is desirable and feasible.

SECTION 2.  Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2005.