Bill > HB2081

This bill establishes the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private higher education institutions. The program aims to provide inclusive, age-appropriate training opportunities for eligible students, with specific requirements for both institutions and students. Institutions must be approved or awaiting approval from the U.S. Department of Education for a comprehensive transition and postsecondary program, develop a selective admissions process, and award a certificate upon program completion. Student eligibility requires U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, Texas residency (with some exceptions), a diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability, ability to participate in inclusive settings, and being deemed non-dangerous by the institution. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program, potentially through a competitive application process, and may award funds to eligible institutions to support educational and skills training services. The program explicitly states that semester credits earned cannot be transferred to associate or baccalaureate degree programs, and the board may use various funding sources, including legislative appropriations, gifts, and donations, to support the initiative.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2081