BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

 

C.S.S.B. 16

By: Zaffirini

Appropriations

Committee Report (Substituted)

 

 

 

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

 

Interested parties identify tuition revenue bonds as a method the legislature favors for funding construction in higher education, with classrooms, laboratories, libraries, academic centers, and other critical infrastructure being well suited to long-term financing. According to the parties, despite an informal agreement that new bonding authority would be provided every other regular legislative session, no new tuition revenue bonds have been authorized for several legislative sessions.

 

University chancellors and presidents have testified about their critical construction needs and the scarcity of alternative revenue sources and indicated that various proposed projects would not be feasible without the issuance of tuition revenue bonds. The parties further contend that funding these needs now would be particularly opportune given relatively low interest rates and construction costs and the strain rapid enrollment over the last decade has placed on the state's existing infrastructure.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 seeks to authorize the issuance of revenue bonds to fund certain capital projects at specified public institutions of higher education.

 

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

 

The Texas A&M University System

 

C.S.S.B. 16 amends the Education Code to provide the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at Texas A&M University--Commerce, up to $40 million for a library and technology center;

·         at Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi, up to $60 million for a life sciences research building;

·         at Texas A&M University--Kingsville, up to $33.6 million for music building expansion and renovation of Jones Auditorium;

·         at Texas A&M University--Texarkana, up to $36.8 million for an academic and laboratory learning center;

·         at West Texas A&M University, up to $12 million for the Amarillo Center;

·         at The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, up to $7.2 million for facilities in Round Rock, Texas, up to $36 million for a research building in Temple, Texas, and up to $64 million for an education center and research building in Dallas, Texas;

·         at Texas A&M International University, up to $41.6 million for library renovation, additional instructional spaces, and a support services building;

·         at Prairie View A&M University, up to $6.4 million for critical deferred maintenance;

·         at Tarleton State University, up to $52 million for the Gates Agriculture and Business Building and up to $12 million for the Midlothian Higher Education Center;

·         at Texas A&M University, up to $88 million for a biocontainment research facility and construction of a music facility;

·         at Texas A&M University at Galveston, up to $36.8 million for an academic building;

·         at Texas A&M University--Central Texas, up to $40 million for a science, health science, and wellness building; and

·         at Texas A&M University--San Antonio, up to $56 million for a science and technology building.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes

 

The University of Texas System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of The University of Texas System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at The University of Texas at Austin, up to $95 million for an engineering education and research center;

·         at The University of Texas at Brownsville or its successor university, up to $100 million for a new campus in Brownsville, but only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law creating or authorizing creation of a new component university of the university system that incorporates the facilities and programs of The University of Texas at Brownsville;

·         at The University of Texas--Pan American, up to $78.4 million for Science Building II;

·         at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, up to $60 million for north campus Phase VI vivarium and research facilities;

·         at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, up to $11.2 million for a South Texas diabetes institute and for an enhanced performance laboratory of the Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies;

·         at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, up to $50 million for a personalized cancer care building;

·         at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, up to $40 million for a health education center;

·         at The University of Texas at Arlington, up to $64.3 million for renovation of and addition to a life science building;

·         at The University of Texas at Dallas, up to $76 million for an engineering building;

·         at The University of Texas at El Paso, up to $88 million for an interdisciplinary research facility;

·         at The University of Texas at San Antonio, up to $74.2 million for an experimental science instructional building;

·         at The University of Texas at Tyler, up to $38.8 million for a STEM and business complex and renovation of the business building;

·         at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, up to $100 million for the renovation and modernization of educational and research facilities;

·         at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, up to $4,804,000 for the Riter Center Primary Care Training Center renovation; and

·         at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, up to $48 million for an engineering building.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

University of Houston System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of the University of Houston System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at the University of Houston, up to $70 million for a pharmacy and biomedical sciences building;

·         at the University of Houston--Clear Lake, up to $67.2 million for a science and academic support building;

·         at the University of Houston--Downtown, up to $37.2 million for a science and technology building; and

·         at the University of Houston--Victoria, up to $78,356,800 for campus expansion.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

Texas State University System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of the Texas State University System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at Lamar University, up to $32 million for a science building;

·         at Lamar State College--Orange, up to $14,222,400 for a multipurpose education building;

·         at Lamar State College--Port Arthur, up to $2,180,000 for an addition to the allied health building;

·         at Lamar Institute of Technology, up to $12 million for renovation and replacement of the technical arts buildings;

·         at Texas State University--San Marcos, up to $44.8 million for a medical education and research building in Round Rock, Texas, and up to $73,265,729 for an engineering and science building;

·         at Sam Houston State University, up to $31,720,000 for a biology, nursing, and allied health building; and

·         at Sul Ross State University, up to $3.4 million for renovation and modernization of educational and related facilities and infrastructure.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

University of North Texas System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of the University of North Texas System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at the University of North Texas System, up to $56 million for college of law building renovations;

·         at the University of North Texas, up to $73.6 million for a college of visual arts and design facility;

·         at the University of North Texas at Dallas, up to $56 million for a library and student success center; and

·         at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, up to $66,600,000 for an interdisciplinary research building.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

Texas Woman's University

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of Texas Woman's University with up to $37,996,928 in additional bond authority to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science and technology learning center at the university. The bill authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of the university and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding.

 

Midwestern State University

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of Midwestern State University with up to $23,992,000 in additional bond authority to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for library, College of Education, and information technology facilities at the university. The bill authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of the university and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding.

 

Stephen F. Austin University

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of Stephen F. Austin University with up to $40 million in additional bond authority to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research building at the university. The bill authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of the university and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding.

 

Texas Tech University System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of the Texas Tech University System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects at the university system, to be financed in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board:

·         at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, up to $36 million for Lubbock education, research, and technology facilities, up to $79.2 million for the El Paso Medical Science Building II, but only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law authorizing creation of a health sciences center in El Paso as a component of the university system, and up to $15,120,000 for the Permian Basin academic facility;

·         at Texas Tech University, up to $70.2 million for a research building; and

·         at Angelo State University, up to $14,896,000 for a health and human services building.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a university system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among university system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

Texas Southern University

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of Texas Southern University with up to $52,814,129 in additional bond authority to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the Robert J. Terry Library at the university. The bill authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of the university and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding.

 

Texas State Technical College System

C.S.S.B. 16 provides the board of regents of the Texas State Technical College System with additional bond authority in the following amounts to acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the following projects:

·         at Texas State Technical College System, up to $35 million for the Ellis County Extension Center, but only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law authorizing an extension center of the system in Ellis County;

·         at Texas State Technical College--Harlingen, up to $2.4 million for Phase II of the Engineering Technology Center renovation;

·         at Texas State Technical College--Marshall, up to $1.2 million for renovation of aviation technology facilities; and

·         at Texas State Technical College--Waco, up to $5 million for water system infrastructure replacement.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 authorizes the board to back these bonds by pledging irrevocably revenue funds of a system component and prohibits the reduction or abrogation of a pledge while a bond backed by the pledge, or a subsequent refunding bond, is outstanding. The bill authorizes the board, if sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations, to transfer funds among system components to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each component to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 specifies that the acquisition of property financed by bonds issued under the bill's provisions does not require approval of the coordinating board but is subject to coordinating board review to determine whether the property meets Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board standards for cost, efficiency, and space use. The bill specifies that construction, repair, or rehabilitation financed by bonds issued under the bill's provisions is exempt from the requirement for coordinating board approval of all construction, repair, and rehabilitation at institutions of higher education financed from any source but is subject to review under the coordinating board's cost, efficiency, and space use standards. The bill's provisions do not affect any authority or restriction regarding the activities that a public institution of higher education may conduct in connection with a facility financed by bonds authorized by the bill's provisions.

 

C.S.S.B. 16 takes effect only if S.B. No. 1, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, and H.B. No. 1025, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, are enacted and become law, and if S.J.R. No. 1, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, is approved by the legislature as necessary for any constitutional amendment proposed by that resolution to be submitted to the voters of this state.

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

 

Except as otherwise provided, on passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2013.

 

COMPARISON OF ORIGINAL AND SUBSTITUTE

 

While C.S.S.B. 16 may differ from the engrossed version in minor or nonsubstantive ways, the following comparison is organized and highlighted in a manner that indicates the substantial differences between the engrossed and committee substitute versions of the bill.

 

SENATE ENGROSSED

HOUSE COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE

SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 55, Education Code, is amended by adding Sections 55.1781, 55.1782, 55.1783, 55.1784, 55.1785, 55.1786, 55.1787, 55.1788, 55.1789, 55.17891, and 55.17892 to read as follows:

Sec. 55.1781. THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Texas A&M University--Commerce, $45 million for a library and technology center;

(2) Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi, $75 million for a life sciences research building;

(3) Texas A&M University--Kingsville, $42 million for music building expansion and renovation of Jones Auditorium;

(4) Texas A&M University--Texarkana, $46 million for an academic and laboratory learning center;

(5) West Texas A&M University, $12 million for the Amarillo Center;

(6) The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center:

(A) $9 million for facilities in Round Rock, Texas;

(B) $45 million for a research building in Temple, Texas; and

(C) $80 million for an education center and research building in Dallas, Texas; and

(7) Texas A&M International University:

(A) $52 million for library renovation, additional instructional spaces, and a support services building; and

(B) $11 million for an addition to the science center.

(b) If the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System provides funds from additional sources available to the board, including the proceeds of bonds issued under Section 55.13, but not including the proceeds of bonds issued under this section, in an amount equal to one-half of the amount specified for each project authorized below, the board may, in addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Prairie View A&M University, $5,333,333 for critical deferred maintenance;

(2) Tarleton State University, $43,333,333 for the Gates Agriculture and Business Building;

 

 

(3) Texas A&M University, $53,333,333 for a biocontainment research facility;

 

(4) Texas A&M University at Galveston, $30,666,667 for an academic building;

(5) Texas A&M University--Central Texas, $33,333,333 for a science, health science, and wellness building; and

(6) Texas A&M University--San Antonio:

(A) $46,666,667 for a science and technology building; and

(B) $11 million for a central and physical plant building.

(c) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of The Texas A&M University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(d) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of The Texas A&M University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

(e) The board may not issue bonds under Subsection (a) until the board makes the pledge of additional funds required to issue bonds under Subsection (b).

Sec. 55.1782. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of The University of Texas System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) The University of Texas at Austin, $95 million for an engineering education and research center;

(2) The University of Texas at Brownsville, $60 million for a new campus;

 

(3) The University of Texas--Pan American, $98 million for Science Building II;

(4) The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, $60 million for north campus Phase VI vivarium and research facilities;

(5) The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, $6 million for a South Texas diabetes institute;

 

 

 

(6) The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, $50 million for a personalized cancer care building; and

(7) The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, $40 million for a health education center.

(b) If the board of regents of The University of Texas System provides funds from additional sources available to the board, including the proceeds of bonds issued under Section 55.13, but not including the proceeds of bonds issued under this section, in an amount equal to the amount specified for each project authorized below, the board may, in addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) The University of Texas at Arlington, $32,150,000 for renovation of and addition to a life science building;

(2) The University of Texas at Dallas, $47,500,000 for an engineering building;

(3) The University of Texas at El Paso, $40 million for an interdisciplinary research facility;

(4) The University of Texas at San Antonio, $46,375,000 for an experimental science instructional building;

(5) The University of Texas at Tyler, $24,250,000 for a STEM and business complex and renovation of the business building;

(6) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, $58,450,000 for the renovation and modernization of educational and research facilities;

(7) The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, $4 million for an enhanced performance laboratory for the Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies;

(8) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, $2,502,500 for the Riter Center Primary Care Training Center renovation; and

(9) The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, $30 million for an engineering building.

(c) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of The University of Texas System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(d) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of The University of Texas System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

(e) The board may not issue bonds under Subsection (a) until the board makes the pledge of additional funds required to issue bonds under Subsection (b).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sec. 55.1783. UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the University of Houston System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) the University of Houston, $70 million for a pharmacy and biomedical sciences building;

(2) the University of Houston--Clear Lake, $75,600,000 for a science and academic support building;

(3) the University of Houston--Downtown, $41,429,000 for a science and technology building; and

(4) the University of Houston--Victoria, $70 million for campus expansion.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the University of Houston System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the University of Houston System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1784. TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas State University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Lamar University, $40 million for a science building;

(2) Lamar State College--Orange, $21 million for a multipurpose education building;

(3) Lamar State College--Port Arthur, $2,500,000 for an addition to the allied health building;

(4) Lamar Institute of Technology, $12 million for renovation and replacement of the technical arts buildings;

(5) Texas State University--San Marcos:

(A) $56 million for a joint project with The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center for a medical education and research building in Round Rock, Texas; and

(B) $83 million for an engineering and science building; and

(6) Sam Houston State University, $9,800,000 for an agriculture engineering technology building.

 

 

 

 

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas State University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas State University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1785. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the University of North Texas System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) the University of North Texas System, $25 million for college of law building renovations;

(2) the University of North Texas, $48 million for a science and technology research facility;

(3) the University of North Texas at Dallas, $70 million for a library and student success center; and

(4) the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, $66,600,000 for an interdisciplinary research building.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the University of North Texas System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the University of North Texas System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1786. TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Texas Woman's University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science and technology learning center, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $37,996,928.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Texas Woman's University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1787. MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Midwestern State University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for library, College of Education, and information technology facilities at Midwestern State University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $29,990,000.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Midwestern State University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1788. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Stephen F. Austin State University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research building at Stephen F. Austin State University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $50 million.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Stephen F. Austin State University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1789. TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas Tech University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

(A) $40,500,000 for Lubbock education, research, and technology facilities;

(B) $75 million for the El Paso Medical Science Building II; and

(C) $17,010,000 for the Permian Basin academic facility;

(2) Texas Tech University, $78,975,000 for a research building; and

(3) Angelo State University, $16,758,000 for a health and human services building.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas Tech University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas Tech University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sec. 55.17891. TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Texas Southern University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the Robert J. Terry Library at Texas Southern University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $66,017,661.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Texas Southern University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.17892. TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas State Technical College System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

 

 

 

(1) Texas State Technical College--Harlingen, $3 million for Phase II of the Engineering Technology Center renovation;

(2) Texas State Technical College--Marshall, $1,500,000 for renovation of aviation technology facilities; and

(3) Texas State Technical College--Waco, $5 million for water system infrastructure replacement.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of those bonds all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas State Technical College System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas State Technical College System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 55, Education Code, is amended by adding Sections 55.1781, 55.1782, 55.1783, 55.1784, 55.1785, 55.1786, 55.1787, 55.1788, 55.1789, 55.17891, and 55.17892 to read as follows:

Sec. 55.1781. THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Texas A&M University--Commerce, $40 million for a library and technology center;

(2) Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi, $60 million for a life sciences research building;

(3) Texas A&M University--Kingsville, $33.6 million for music building expansion and renovation of Jones Auditorium;

(4) Texas A&M University--Texarkana, $36.8 million for an academic and laboratory learning center;

(5) West Texas A&M University, $12 million for the Amarillo Center;

(6) The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center:

(A) $7.2 million for facilities in Round Rock, Texas;

(B) $36 million for a research building in Temple, Texas; and

(C) $64 million for an education center and research building in Dallas, Texas;

(7) Texas A&M International University, $41.6 million for library renovation, additional instructional spaces, and a support services building;

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(8) Prairie View A&M University, $6.4 million for critical deferred maintenance;

 

(9) Tarleton State University:

(A) $52 million for the Gates Agriculture and Business Building; and

(B) $12 million for the Midlothian Higher Education Center;

(10) Texas A&M University, $88 million for a biocontainment research facility and construction of a music facility;

(11) Texas A&M University at Galveston, $36.8 million for an academic building;

(12) Texas A&M University--Central Texas, $40 million for a science, health science, and wellness building; and

(13) Texas A&M University--San Antonio, $56 million for a science and technology building.

 

 

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of The Texas A&M University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of The Texas A&M University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

 

 

 

Sec. 55.1782. THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of The University of Texas System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) The University of Texas at Austin, $95 million for an engineering education and research center;

(2) The University of Texas at Brownsville or its successor university, $100 million for a new campus in Brownsville;

(3) The University of Texas--Pan American, $78.4 million for Science Building II;

(4) The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, $60 million for north campus Phase VI vivarium and research facilities;

(5) The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, $11.2 million for a South Texas diabetes institute and for an enhanced performance laboratory of the Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies;

(6) The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, $50 million for a personalized cancer care building;

(7) The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, $40 million for a health education center;

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(8) The University of Texas at Arlington, $64.3 million for renovation of and addition to a life science building;

(9) The University of Texas at Dallas, $76 million for an engineering building;

(10) The University of Texas at El Paso, $88 million for an interdisciplinary research facility;

(11) The University of Texas at San Antonio, $74.2 million for an experimental science instructional building;

(12) The University of Texas at Tyler, $38.8 million for a STEM and business complex and renovation of the business building;

 

(13) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, $100 million for the renovation and modernization of educational and research facilities;

 

 

 

 

 

(14) The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, $4,804,000 for the Riter Center Primary Care Training Center renovation; and

(15) The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, $48 million for an engineering building.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of The University of Texas System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of The University of Texas System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

 

 

 

 

(d) The bonds for the project specified by Subsection (a)(2) may be issued only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law creating or authorizing creation of a new component university of The University of Texas System that incorporates the facilities and programs of The University of Texas at Brownsville.

Sec. 55.1783. UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the University of Houston System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) the University of Houston, $70 million for a pharmacy and biomedical sciences building;

(2) the University of Houston--Clear Lake, $67.2 million for a science and academic support building;

(3) the University of Houston--Downtown, $37.2 million for a science and technology building; and

(4) the University of Houston--Victoria, $78,356,800 for campus expansion.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the University of Houston System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the University of Houston System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1784. TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas State University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Lamar University, $32 million for a science building;

(2) Lamar State College--Orange, $14,222,400 for a multipurpose education building;

(3) Lamar State College--Port Arthur, $2,180,000 for an addition to the allied health building;

(4) Lamar Institute of Technology, $12 million for renovation and replacement of the technical arts buildings;

(5) Texas State University--San Marcos:

(A) $44.8 million for a medical education and research building in Round Rock, Texas; and

 

 

(B) $73,265,729 for an engineering and science building;

(6) Sam Houston State University, $31,720,000 for a biology, nursing, and allied health building; and

(7) Sul Ross State University, $3.4 million for renovation and modernization of educational and related facilities and infrastructure.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas State University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas State University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1785. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the University of North Texas System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) the University of North Texas System, $56 million for college of law building renovations;

(2) the University of North Texas, $73.6 million for a college of visual arts and design facility;

(3) the University of North Texas at Dallas, $56 million for a library and student success center; and

(4) the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, $66,600,000 for an interdisciplinary research building.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the University of North Texas System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the University of North Texas System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

Sec. 55.1786. TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVERSITY. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Texas Woman's University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science and technology learning center, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $37,996,928.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Texas Woman's University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1787. MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Midwestern State University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for library, College of Education, and information technology facilities at Midwestern State University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $23,992,000.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Midwestern State University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1788. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN STATE UNIVERSITY. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Stephen F. Austin State University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics research building at Stephen F. Austin State University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $40 million.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Stephen F. Austin State University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.1789. TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY SYSTEM; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas Tech University System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter and in accordance with a systemwide revenue financing program adopted by the board for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center:

(A) $36 million for Lubbock education, research, and technology facilities;

(B) $79.2 million for the El Paso Medical Science Building II; and

(C) $15,120,000 for the Permian Basin academic facility;

(2) Texas Tech University, $70.2 million for a research building; and

(3) Angelo State University, $14,896,000 for a health and human services building.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas Tech University System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas Tech University System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

(d) The bonds for the project specified by Subsection (a)(1)(B) may be issued only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law authorizing creation of a health sciences center in El Paso as a component of the Texas Tech University System.

Sec. 55.17891. TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY; ADDITIONAL BONDS. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of Texas Southern University may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for the Robert J. Terry Library at Texas Southern University, to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter, not to exceed the aggregate principal amount of $52,814,129.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of bonds authorized by this section all or any part of the revenue funds of Texas Southern University, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

Sec. 55.17892. TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM. (a) In addition to the other authority granted by this subchapter, the board of regents of the Texas State Technical College System may acquire, purchase, construct, improve, renovate, enlarge, or equip property and facilities, including roads and related infrastructure, for projects to be financed through the issuance of bonds in accordance with this subchapter for the following institutions, not to exceed the following aggregate principal amounts for the projects specified, as follows:

(1) Texas State Technical College System, $35 million for the Ellis County Extension Center;

(2) Texas State Technical College--Harlingen, $2.4 million for Phase II of the Engineering Technology Center renovation;

(3) Texas State Technical College--Marshall, $1.2 million for renovation of aviation technology facilities; and

(4) Texas State Technical College--Waco, $5 million for water system infrastructure replacement.

(b) The board may pledge irrevocably to the payment of those bonds all or any part of the revenue funds of an institution, branch, or entity of the Texas State Technical College System, including student tuition charges. The amount of a pledge made under this subsection may not be reduced or abrogated while the bonds for which the pledge is made, or bonds issued to refund those bonds, are outstanding.

(c) If sufficient funds are not available to the board to meet its obligations under this section, the board may transfer funds among institutions, branches, and entities of the Texas State Technical College System to ensure the most equitable and efficient allocation of available resources for each institution, branch, or entity to carry out its duties and purposes.

(d) The bonds for the project specified by Subsection (a)(1) may be issued only if the 83rd Legislature enacts legislation that becomes law authorizing an extension center of the Texas State Technical College System in Ellis County.

SECTION 2. Subsection (e), Section 61.0572, Education Code, is amended.

SECTION 2. Same as engrossed version.

 

SECTION 3. Subsection (b), Section 61.058, Education Code, is amended.

SECTION 3. Same as engrossed version.

 

SECTION 4. This Act does not affect any authority or restriction regarding the activities that a public institution of higher education may conduct in connection with a facility financed by bonds authorized by this Act.

SECTION 4. Same as engrossed version.

 

SECTION 5. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2013.

 

SECTION 5. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b) of this section, this Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2013.

(b) This Act takes effect only if:

(1) S.B. No. 1, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, is enacted and becomes law;

(2) H.B. No. 1025, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, is enacted and becomes law; and

(3) S.J.R. No. 1, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, is approved by the legislature as necessary for any constitutional amendment proposed by that resolution to be submitted to the voters of this state.