Bill > SB724

This bill establishes new requirements for governing board members of Texas public higher education institutions regarding in-person meeting attendance. Specifically, board members must attend at least 75% of their governing board meetings in person each year, with penalties for non-compliance. For a first violation, a board member will be liable for a $1,000 civil penalty payable to their institution, which can only use those funds to provide student scholarships. A second violation results in the board member being ineligible for reappointment to their current board or appointment to any other governing board. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is authorized to adopt rules for implementing these requirements, and the attorney general can bring civil action to collect penalties at the coordinating board's request. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving institutions and board members time to adjust to the new attendance mandate. The goal appears to be increasing board member engagement and physical presence at meetings of public higher education governing bodies.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB724