Bill > HB538

This bill amends Texas education laws to establish new rules for postsecondary educational institutions regarding student academic records and transcripts. Specifically, the bill requires institutions to release transcripts or certificates of completion to students upon request, with some important conditions. For students who have outstanding financial obligations, institutions must still release transcripts if the student has not been enrolled for at least five years, provides documentation about a job application or intent to enroll in another institution, and has made a good faith effort to fulfill their financial obligation. The transcript or certificate must be sent directly to the employer or new educational institution. The bill also allows postsecondary institutions to charge a reasonable fee for transcript release, with the requirement that the fee be consistent for all students, though institutions can establish policies to offer lower fees based on certain criteria. The bill broadens the definition of "postsecondary educational institution" to include various types of higher education institutions and career schools. Additionally, the bill makes technical changes to existing education code provisions related to certificates, diplomas, and transcript restrictions. The legislation will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the immediate effect vote.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB538