Bill > HB371

This bill modifies Texas education law regarding school admission and funding for children who are not U.S. citizens or lawfully present in the United States. Specifically, the bill allows school districts to admit such children to public schools free of tuition if the United States government has entered into an agreement to pay the cost of their education. The bill requires the state education agency to seek such an agreement and, if successful, to require school districts to report these students through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) and then distribute reimbursement funds to the districts. The bill also clarifies that students who are not U.S. citizens or lawfully present are not typically entitled to benefits from the Foundation School Program, with the exception of those admitted under the new provisions. These changes will apply starting with the 2026-2027 school year, and the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025. The primary goal appears to be creating a mechanism for educating children who are in the United States without legal documentation, contingent upon federal funding for their education.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB371