Bill > SB184

This bill amends Section 51.3525(d) of the Texas Education Code to expand the existing list of exemptions from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) restrictions at public higher education institutions. Specifically, the bill adds an eighth exemption that allows programs, activities, or scholarships funded by private donations, federal money, or funds not appropriated by the Texas legislature to be exempt from DEI-related requirements. The current law already provides exceptions for academic course instruction, scholarly research, student organization activities, guest speakers, policies aimed at enhancing student achievement without regard to race or sex, data collection, and student recruitment. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in both legislative chambers, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the necessary immediate effect voting threshold. This modification appears designed to provide more flexibility for higher education institutions in funding and implementing programs through non-state sources while maintaining restrictions on state-funded DEI initiatives.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB184