Bill > SB1786

This bill makes several modifications to public higher education laws in Texas, focusing on dual credit programs, educational funding, and workforce development. It expands the definition of "school district" to include the Windham School District and modifies eligibility criteria for students to enroll in dual credit courses at no cost, now allowing students in grades 9-12 who were educationally disadvantaged at any time during the current or previous four school years. The bill grants the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board additional rulemaking flexibility, including the ability to adopt rules for federal financial aid programs without using negotiated rulemaking. It also introduces a new framework for evaluating "credentials of value" in higher education, which considers factors like potential earnings, return on investment, and alignment with state workforce needs. Additionally, the bill requires the Texas Workforce Commission to conduct biennial regional labor demand assessments to help educational institutions better align their programs with workforce requirements. The legislation aims to improve coordination between secondary and postsecondary career and technical education programs, enhance workforce data reporting, and support students' educational and economic opportunities. Most provisions will take effect in the 2025-2026 academic year, with some specific sections of the bill applying to different degree and certificate programs in subsequent years.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1786