Bill

Bill > SB579


TX SB579

TX SB579
Relating to an exemption from certain requirements regarding diversity, equity, or inclusion initiatives for certain scholarships provided by public institutions of higher education.


summary

Introduced
12/13/2024
In Committee
02/03/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
06/02/2025

Introduced Session

89th Legislature Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT relating to an exemption from certain requirements regarding diversity, equity, or inclusion initiatives for certain scholarships provided by public institutions of higher education.

AI Summary

This bill amends the Texas Education Code to expand existing exemptions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education. Specifically, the bill adds a new exemption for scholarships funded by private money that are held in trust by or endowed to a public higher education institution or its affiliated foundation. This means that such privately funded scholarships would be excluded from certain restrictions on DEI-related activities. The existing law already provides several exemptions, including academic course instruction, scholarly research, student organization activities, guest speakers, and policies designed to enhance academic achievement without regard to race, sex, color, or ethnicity. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or otherwise on September 1, 2025. The purpose appears to be protecting privately funded scholarships from potential limitations on DEI initiatives in higher education institutions.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Referred to Education K-16 (on 02/03/2025)

bill text


bill summary

Loading...

bill summary

Loading...
Loading...