AAUP@UT

Texas Legislature: Higher Ed Bill Tracker – AAUP/AFT Analysis of Texas SB 16, 17, and 18 to limit academic freedom, ban DEI, and eliminate tenure

Oppose Texas bills to limit academic freedom, ban DEI, eliminate tenure:

• Join the Texas AFT Defend Tenure, DEI & Academic Freedom campaign to ask your Reps to vote against these bills
• Invite faculty, students, alumni, parents, and community and business leaders to join the campaign via the Impactive App using code 851761
• Send comments to the Senate Higher Ed Subcommittee by clicking on each picture and selecting E-mail Your Senator or calling their office
• Testify at a committee hearing — see our Bill Tracker for the hearing schedule and the advocacy training page for resources and guidance

Texas AAUP Members testified against anti-tenure SB 18: Brian Evans (YouTube) as well as Andrea Gore (39:21), Pat Heintzelman (41:13), Derek Chiou (55:48), Karma Chavez (1:15:28) in part II of the hearing recording.

New Op-Ed: Andrea Gore, “UT scientist: Killing tenure would ruin the state’s research universities“, Houston Chronicle, March 24, 2023. You only need to provide your e-mail address to access the article if not a subscriber.

Academic Freedom and Tenure: Impact of eliminating tenure white paper and talking points; Texas AAUP Higher Ed Talking Points and Academic Freedom Basics; AAUP Academic Freedom – Tenure; Florida petition

Teaching About Race and Gender Identity: Impact of banning teaching about race and gender identity white paper and talking points – Proposed bill could ban critical race theory from Texas universities – AAUP Statement on Educational gag orders: Legislative interference in teaching about race

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): Impact of banning DEI programs white paper and talking points – Legislative Black Caucus press conf. opposing Gov. Abbott’s anti-DEI agenda – Gov. Abbott tells state agencies to stop considering diversity in hiring – House bill restricts speech

Texas AAUP Legislative Visits: Brainstorming with Texas Legislators at AFT Breakfast – Advocating with Texas AFT and with TACT

AAUP@UT: Advocating for Academic Freedom and Tenure Slides – Joining AAUP – Application for Chapter Status – Officers – By-Laws – Meetings in Spring 2023 – Fall 2022 – Spring 2022 – Fall 2021

UT Austin: Petition for faculty & staff solidarity with graduate student workers – Advocating with Texas A&M for Higher Ed – Faculty authority in curriculum matters – Academic freedom in UT System policies

Founded in 1915, AAUP has helped to shape American higher education by developing the standards and procedures that maintain education quality and academic freedom in this country’s colleges and universities. AAUP is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers.

All AAUP members affiliated with UT Austin are automatically members of AAUP@UT. If you are affiliated with UT Austin and would like to join the AAUP@UT mailing list, please email Brian Evans.

Austin-area AFT Locals invited Austin-area Texas Legislators to a Breakfast on Saturday, February 25, 2023, to brainstorm on public K-12 and higher education issues. In the above picture, Rep. John Bucy is responding to ideas from Texas AFT members and Texas AAUP Conference Officers Jim Klein (on the left) and Brian Evans (on the right) attending as private citizens. AAUP affiliated with AFT in August.

The following Legislators attended:

• Rep. John Bucy, III (D-Cedar Park, District 136) BA History Austin College
• Rep. Sheryl Cole (D-Austin, District 46) BA Accounting, UT Austin; JD UT Austin
• Rep. Lulu Flores (D-Austin, District 51) BA Government, UT Austin; JD UT Austin
• Rep. Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin, District 47) BBA UT Austin; Masters LBJ School of Public Affairs, UT Austin
• Rep. Gina Hinojosa (D-Austin, District 49) BA Government, Liberal Arts Plan II Honors, UT Austin; JD George Washington University
• Rep. Donna Howard (D-Austin, District 48) BS & MS Nursing, UT Austin
• Rep. James Talarico (D-Austin, District 50) BA Government, UT Austin; MA Educational Policy, Harvard University.

Reps. Bucy, Cole, and Howard are on the House Higher Education Committee and Reps. Hinojosa and Talarico are on the House Public Education Committee.

The AFT sponsors were Austin Community College AFT, Education Austin, Bastrop Federation of Teachers, and Education Round Rock.

Eleven Texas AAUP Members attended as private citizens including Jim Klein, Teresa Klein and Pat Heintzelman shown below. Jim Klein is also the President of the Texas Association of College Teachers; Teresa Klein is the Texas AAUP VP for South Texas; and Pat Heinzelman is also the President of the Texas Faculty Association, TSTA, NEA.

AAUP@UT enthusiasts met on Feb. 27, 2023, to hear talks with Q&A on

• “Advocating for Academic Freedom, Tenure, and Other Higher Ed Values” by Brian Evans, VP Texas AAUP Conf. & President AAUP@UT
• “Organizing on Campus and Beyond” by Karma Chávez, Officer, AAUP@UT

and participate in moderated breakout sessions on advocacy (telling our stories about how higher ed values helps our teaching and research and in turn Texans and Texas) via

• Blogging, social media posts and podcasts – Polly Strong
• Op-ed writing – Andrea Gore
• Developing talking points – Karma Chávez
• Meeting with State Legislators – Brian Evans

Action Items:

• Organize with your colleagues
• Advocate for higher ed values by telling your story in blogs, posts, etc.
• Join Legislative Days, Tx Capitol, Texas AFT Mar 13 & TSEU Apr 13
• Become an AAUP member: Benefits and Impact of Joining AAUP 
• Plan events for professional faculty and instructors of flag courses.
• Support Texas AAUP campaign and Texas AFT campaign for education

Advocating at the State Legislature is something that UT Austin and Texas A&M University organize, and not just external advocacy organizations.

Texas Exes and The Association of Former Students at Texas A&M team up at the Orange and Maroon Legislative Day in each Texas Legislative Session to organize current and former students as well as faculty and staff to advocate together for public higher education. Each team of 3-6 people has representatives from UT and A&M. On February 15, 2023, our 31 teams fanned out across the State Capitol in the afternoon to meet with all 181 Legislators. UT Austin President Jay Hartzell gave a speech in the morning, and Chancellors James Milliken and John Sharp in the evening.

When meeting with Legislators, each team presented the same talking points along themes of making public higher ed more affordable to students and their families, enhancing the quality of life, and creating jobs in Texas:

1. Strengthen the Core Academic Mission with Increased Formula Funding — improving affordability
2. Increased Investment in University Research Initiatives — enhancing quality of life and creating jobs
3. Support Innovations and Production of Semiconductors in Texas — enhancing quality of life and creating jobs
4. Increase Access to Mental Health Resources on Campus — improving affordability and enhancing quality of life
5. Fully Fund Military Veteran Education Benefits for the Texas Hazlewood Act — improving affordability

Improving affordability. Stable and predictable state funding helps to keep college affordable and promotes efficiency and consistency for the universities, students, and families.

Enhancing quality of life and creating jobs.  Basic and applied research creates lifesaving treatments, medicines, therapies, technologies, business practices, artistic works, and more to improve the quality of life for Texans and spurs innovation across all sectors of our economy.

More information about the talking points is available in the Orange and Maroon Legislative Day Volunteer Handbook. Daniel Beka (Texas Exes) and Miranda Henderson (The Association of Former Students at Texas A&M) are available to field any questions Legislative Offices might have at daniel.beka@texasexes.org and mhenderson09@aggienetwork.com.

Here is a bit more information on the talking points:

1. Affordability. Make our universities more affordable — strengthen the core academic mission with increased formula funding. 
   • Note: Formula funding for each institution is based on adding up the number of students enrolled in each course times the number of credit hours times a multiplier for the type of course taken that reflects the cost to offer the course (1 for Liberal Arts, 6 for Engineering, etc.)
   • Note: State funding per full-time public higher education student across all 107 institutions dropped every year from $6292 in 2001 to $4610 in 2020 after adjusting for inflation. (Source: State Support for Higher Education per Full-Time Equivalent Student, National Science Foundation, 2000-2020.) 
2. Research.  Three subpoints: 
   • Enhance funding rate for Texas Research University Fund (which gives $1.1M for every $10M in research expenditures)  
   • Maintain $40M in funding for the Governor’s University Research Initiative.  
   • Note: In 2020, Texas public universities and health-related institutions had $5.44B in research expenditures (Source: Research Funding in Texas Overview, 60x30TX Report, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board).  This funding is not recurring like the formula funding in the first talking point.
   • Brian Evans told a story about the importance of research in Texas:  Dr. James Allison, BS & PhD UT Austin and Professor at UT MD Anderson, made key discoveries about cancer and the immune system that led to a new filed of immunotherapy that has transformed the treatment of certain cancers. In some cases, tumors melt away and a patient becomes cancer-free.  He won a Nobel Prize for this work in 2018.
3. Semiconductors. Appropriate funds to strengthen proposals across Texas to compete for billions of dollars in federal CHIPS Act funding.  Leverage state dollars for federal funds . 
4. Mental health.  Invest in higher ed mental health services for students.  
5. Veterans and their dependents — Texas Hazlewood Act 1943 was expanded in 2009 to cover tuition benefits for up to 150 credit hours for dependents of veterans, which became an unfunded mandate.  Increase State funding to cover all dependent beneficiaries.  Deficit drives up tuition for others.  
   • The average impact of a Hazlewood “legacy beneficiary” waiver passed onto other students is approximately $196 at UT Austin and $270 at Texas A&M University per year  
   • Brian Evans added– It would take $280M/year in State funding to fully fund Hazlewood mandates across all public higher ed. (Source: Stacey Napier, UT System Vice Chancellor of Governmental Affairs). 

For first day of the 88th Texas Legislature on January 10, 2023, the Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) brought 20 chapter presidents and other officers from around the state to build relationships with Texas Legislators and their staff and to advocate for public K-12 students, support staff, and educators as well as higher ed students, staff, and faculty.

At a press conference on Tuesday at the State Capitol, Texas AFT President Zeph Capo, Rep. Gina Hinojosa (D), Rep. Todd Hunter (R), and Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos (D) demanded changes to improve the working conditions for teachers and learning conditions for students. President Capo advocated for the main points in the Texas AFT Respect Us or Expect Us campaign:

• A $10,000 across-the-board raise for teachers and certified staff, including nurses and librarians
• A 15% across-the-board raise for classified staff, including bus drivers, maintenance workers, and custodians
• A substantial increase to the basic allotment to fund these raises, as well as investments in our schools to make them safer and more supportive of students
• Closing the class size loopholes that allow districts to overcrowd classrooms without penalty
• A defined work year for educators so they aren’t expected to sacrifice weekends and evenings consistently
• A significant cost-of-living adjustment for retired educators that keeps pace annually with inflation.

Texas AFT invited Texas AAUP, which was represented by President Jeff Blodgett and Vice President Brian Evans. AAUP talking points included

• Academic freedom and tenure ensures world class teaching
• Restore and maintain higher ed funding after 20 years of annual cuts
• Campus safety and building repair due to age and storm damage

The Texas AFT outreach to the Texas Legislature started with an evening reception on January 9th, where Texas AAUP President Jeff Blodgett and Vice President Brian Evans met

• Rep. Salman Bhojani (D-Dallas, District 92) BS Business UT Dallas; JD SMU; Comparative Law Diploma Oxford University
• Rep. Rhetta Bowers (D-Garland, District 113) BA Telecommunications, with an emphasis in Broadcast Journalism, Texas Southern University
• Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos (D-Richardson, District 102) Associates Degree Eastfield Community College; BA Communications UT Arlington; MBA Texas Women’s University; JD SMU.  Associate Professor at El Centro College.
• Rep. Jon Rosenthal (D-Houston, District 135) BS Mechanical Eng. UT Austin.  His father was a Professor of Mathematics at UT Austin.
• Rep. Carl Sherman (D-Dallas, District 109) BBA Northwood University

as well as several staffers including

• Ms. Dawn Freeman, Chief of Staff for Rep. Carl Sherman. BBA & MBA St. Leo’s University
• Mr. Taylor Larson, Chief of Staff for Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos, BA William & Mary; JD Columbia
• Mr. Ali Zaidi, Democratic Caucus, BA UT Austin

On the next day, after the morning press conference, Texas AFT chapter officers visited the offices of their local representatives, reaching 78 of the 181 State Legislators. Since it was the first day of the session with the induction ceremony at noon, refreshments were served in the Legislative offices and staff were readily available to meet with visitors. Brian Evans (VP Texas AAUP) teamed with David Albert (President Austin Community College AFT Local) to present the Texas AFT K-12 talking points (see above) as well as the following higher ed talking points:

• $10K raise for full-time faculty members including tenured, tenure-track, and non-tenure-track faculty (instructors)
• 15% raise for adjunct/contingent faculty and staff
• Academic freedom and tenure to ensure world class teaching
• Restore and maintain higher ed funding after 20 years of annual cuts

Brian also presented the Texas AAUP “Pledge to Support Higher Education in Texas” when visiting the following Austin-area legislators and their staff:

Updated March 31, 2023. Below are more than 180 higher ed bills filed in the 88th Texas Legislature, which convened Jan. 10, 2023. The bill filing deadline was Mar. 10, 2023, and the Legislature will adjourn on May 29, 2023. We would like to thank Patty Quinzi and Eli Melendrez at the Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) for their help.

AAUP and AFT have provided an Analysis of SB 16, 17 & 18 which restrict academic freedom; ban diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); and eliminate granting of tenure after Sept. 1, 2023. Texas AFT has launched a Defend Tenure, DEI & Academic Freedom campaign to ask your Texas Senate and House Reps to vote against SB 16, 17 and 18, and the related House Bills. The Web form is automated, and you can edit the draft letter to your representatives before it is sent.  Here are other actions you can take.

Committee hearings of certain legislative matters concerning higher ed:

SB17 bans DEI policies, programs; prohibits DEI statements in admissions, employment, and promotion; bans DEI offices and employees, requires a no-hire list to be maintained of employees violating this section, and requires termination of an employee that violates this section for a second time; and prohibits students, staff and faculty to be on a President’s search committee.

Senate Higher Education Subcommittee

Expected to be heard on Thursday, April 6, 2023, 9:00am

SB 18 eliminates tenure at public institutions of higher education

Senate Higher Education Subcommittee

Agenda for Thursday, March 30, 2023, 9:00am

Opportunities to take action

SB 16 restricts curriculum content and discussion about race, sex, or ethnicity and social, political, or religious backgrounds and beliefs

Senate Higher Education Subcommittee

Thursday, March 23, 2023, 9:00am

Referred to Senate Education Committee

Budget Rider #186 Prohibition on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Practices

House Appropriations Committee

Thursday, March 16, 2023, 8:00am

Passed

SB 15 Participation in Intercollegiate Athletics based on biological sex

Senate Committee on State Affairs

Monday, March 13, 2023, 10:30am

Passed

The Texas AAUP Conference recognizes the following bills as “encouraging legislation” for public institutions of higher education:

• HB 202 gives a pay raise for all state employees including those in public institutions of higher education of $10,000/year
• HB 3471 strengthens protections for academic freedom, including when teaching about race, ethnic, and gender identity and their intersections, and for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs.
• HB 4571 adopts measures to address student hunger.

The Texas AAUP Conference is also following these bills among others due to concerns of infringement on free speech, academic freedom, tenure, and shared governance at public institutions of higher education (public technical institute, public junior college, public senior college or university, medical or dental unit, public state college, or other agency of higher education):

• Eliminating tenure
  • SB18 prohibits granting of institutional tenure or permanent employment status on or after Sept. 1, 2023; faculty members with tenure prior to Sept. 1, 2023, will be able to maintain tenure provided they are continuously employed.
• Censorship
  • HB 1607 places limits on teaching about racial and/or gender identity and any institution that violates this section is ineligible to receive state funds.
  • HB 2736 censors certain materials from being available in libraries at public institutions of higher education
  • SB16 restricts curriculum content and discussion about race, sex, or ethnicity and social, political, or religious backgrounds and beliefs.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) policies and programs
  • HB 1006 requires that each institution of higher education “maintain political, social, and cultural neutrality” and prohibits institutional support for DEI programs
  • HB 1046 prohibits requiring affirmation of DEI in admissions, employment, and promotion
  • HB 3164 bans DEI offices and employees at public institutions of higher education
  • HB 3682 prevents use of an applicant’s race, color, or any protected characteristic in admissions decisions.
  • HB 5001 bans requirement for diversity training for admissions or registration.
  • HB 5140 bans the consideration of race or ethnicity as a factor in admissions.
  • SB17 bans DEI policies and programs; prohibits DEI statements in admissions, employment, and promotion; bans DEI offices and employees, requires a no-hire list to be maintained of employees violating this section, and requires termination of an employee that violates this section for a second time; and prohibits students, staff and faculty to be on a President’s search committee.
  • SB 2313 prohibits public institutions of higher education from requiring diversity training as a condition for enrollment or registration.
• Prohibiting faculty from determining certain admissions standards
  • SB 518 requires standardized tests for admissions for first-time-in-college, graduate, and professional studies (professional studies include Business, Law and Medicine)
• Other bills to reduce ability to recruit and retain faculty members
  • SB 1799 limits employment contracts for staff and faculty at junior colleges to one year
  • SB 147 prevents citizens of China, Iran, North Korea and Russia from owning property
• Making attendance at college more expensive for students
  • SB 518 requires standardized tests for admissions for first-time-in-college, graduate, and professional studies
  • HB 859 / HB 1117 prevent undocumented students in public institutions of higher ed from being considered residents of Texas.
  • HB 3280 prevents undocumented students in public institutions of higher ed from being considered residents of Texas and requires public institutions of higher ed to report undocumented students enrolled there to campus police or other local law enforcement.
• Banning certain students from admission
  • HB 4736 bans from admission to an institution of higher education any citizens of China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia as well as undocumented students.
• Changing accreditation of academic and governance standards
  • SB 1913 extends the three official accreditation agencies for public and private institutions of higher education by allowing any “recognized accrediting agency”. The three official accreditation agencies for general education, medicine and law require demonstration of academic freedom, diversity, and shared governance. The American Bar Association also requires training in racial and gender justice for law students.
  • HB 4880 creates a state agency to evaluate higher ed accreditation agencies. This is currently done by the federal government.
• Banning transgender athletes
  • HB 23 restricts participation in K-12 and higher ed athletics based on biological sex
  • SB15 restricts participation on an intercollegiate athletic team based on biological sex
• Restricting voting access by students, staff and faculty
  • HB 2390 bans voting locations on college campuses

In the Texas Legislature, the Lt. Gov. presides over the Senate. In the Senate, the Lt. Gov. forms the committees, assigns bills to committees, and decides what bills come to the floor for a vote. The Texas Senate has 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats. See “Lieutenant Governor of Texas” for more info. The Speaker of the House presides over the House. In the House, the Speaker forms the committees, maintains order during floor debates, and votes on House Bills. The Texas House has 86 Republicans and 64 Democrats. See “Frequently Asked Questions” by the Texas House of Representatives.

Here are links to several national AAUP statements on related issues:

• Advancing Academic Freedom
• Educational Gag Orders: Legislative Interference in Teaching About Race
• Shared Governance
• Tenure

House Bills and Joint Resolutions

HB 8

VanDeaver, Gary (R)

Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.

HB 23

Swanson, Valoree (R)

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

HB 75

Zwiener, Erin (D)

Relating to acceptable forms of identification for voting.

HB 104

Klick, Stephanie (R)

Relating to student loan repayment assistance for certain nurses employed by a long-term care facility.

HB 116

Canales, Terry (D)

Relating to a distance learning program at The University of Texas at Austin School of Law.

HB 157

Ortega, Evelina (D)

Relating to the establishment of a public law school in El Paso County.

HB 164

Canales, Terry (D)

Relating to exempting textbooks purchased, used, or consumed by university and college students from sales and use taxes for limited periods.

HB 170

Spiller, David(R)

Relating to certain requirements applicable to certain public entities that engage in lobbying.

HB 202

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to a pay raise for certain state employees

HB 306

Bernal, Diego (D)

Relating to student access to certain academic records; authorizing a fee.

HB 320

Johnson, Jarvis (D)

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

HB 334

Johnson, Jarvis(D)

Relating to contracts to provide appropriate residential housing to students in extended foster care who enroll at public institutions of higher education.

HB 354

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to acceptable forms of identification for voting.

HB 402

Schofield, Mike(R)

Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly.

HB 429

Schofeld, Mike (R)

Relating to annual cost-of-living increases applicable to benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 481

Goldman, Craig (R)

Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly.

HB 547

Cain, Briscoe (R)

Relating to tuition and fee bills or billing statements provided to students by public institutions of higher education

HB 567

Bowers, Rhetta (D)

Relating to discrimination on the basis of hair texture or protective hairstyle associated with race

HB 584

Capriglione, Giovanni (R)

Relating to the development of a state information technology credential offered by public junior colleges to address shortages in the state information resources workforce

HB 600

Bonnen, Greg (R)

Relating to contributions to, benefits from, and the administration of systems and programs administered by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

HB 602

Shaheen, Matt (R)

Relating to requiring political subdivisions of this state to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

HB 621

Shaheen, Matthew (R)

Relating to creating a temporary educator certification for certain military service members

HB 683

Cole, Sheryl (D)

Relating to the exemption of tuition and laboratory fees at public institutions of higher education for certain paramedics.

HB 707

Geren, Charlie (R)

Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly and their surviving spouse

HB 742

Goodwin, Vikki (D)

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain county jailers and law enforcement telecommunicators.

HB 750

Dean, Jay (R)

Relating to the disposition by a public junior college library of certain library materials.

HB 845

Patterson, Jared (R)

Relating to prohibiting a public institution of higher education from providing financial support to nonprofit media organizations.

HB 859

Slaton, Bryan (R)

Relating to the determination of resident status of students by public institutions of higher education.

HB 877

Meza, Terry (D)

Relating to a study by the Legislative Budget Board concerning the long-term effects of regulating tuition rates and amounts charged by public institutions of higher education.

HB 878

Gervin-Hawkins, Barbara (D)

Relating to a single common course numbering system for and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education in this state.

HB 901

Klick, Stephanie (R)

Relating to support for nursing-related postsecondary education including the provision of loan repayment assistance to nursing faculty and the provision of grants to nursing education programs.

HB 906

Moody, Joe (D)

Relating to the provision of information regarding mental health and suicide prevention services to entering students at public institutions of higher education

HB 989

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to the establishment of a higher education plan for human papillomavirus education and prevention.

HB 990

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to the task force on racial diversity in the nursing workforce.

HB 1006

Tepper, Carl (F)(R)

Relating to protected expression, intellectual freedom, and viewpoint diversity at public institutions of higher education.

HB 1033

Tepper, Carl (F)(R)

Relating to prohibiting the use of political tests by governmental entities and certain government contracts.

HB 1044

Hinojosa, Gina (D)

Relating to the issuance of a transcript by a postsecondary educational institution to a student who is in default on certain student loans.

HB 1046

Tepper, Carl (F)(R)

Relating to prohibiting the use of political tests by public institutions of higher education.

HB 1053

Rosenthal, Jon (D)

Relating to measures to facilitate the successful completion of degree and certificate programs by certain adult learners at public institutions of higher education.

HB 1077

Martinez, Armando (D)

Relating to the establishment of a public law school in the Rio Grande Valley.

HB 1117

Leo-Wilson, Terri (F)(R)

Relating to the determination of resident status of students by public institutions of higher education.

HB 1142

Thierry, Shawn (D)

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

HB 1165

Thierry, Shawn (D)

Relating to medical education coursework in cultural competence and implicit bias.

HB 1183

Harrison, Brian (R)

Relating to requiring coursework in economics for an associate or baccalaureate degree program at a public institution of higher education.

HB 1192

Turner, Chris (D)

Relating to the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program.

HB 1276

Hinojosa, Gina (D)

Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.

HB 1323

Talarico, James (D)

Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.

HB 1329

Morales, Eddie (D)

Relating to student loan repayment assistance for certain health care workers employed in rural counties.

HB 1338

Raney, John (R)

Relating to the participation of community-based organizations in workforce training programs funded by the skills development fund.

HB 1361

Morales Shaw, Penny (D)

Relating to the designation of liaison officers to assist certain students at public institutions of higher education who are parents.

HB 1393

Frank, James (R)

Relating to an optional service retirement annuity of the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

HB 1406

Lujan, John (R)

Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.

HB 1419

Cain, Briscoe (R)

Relating to the repeal of certain limitations on bacterial meningitis vaccination exemptions for students at institutions of higher education.

HB 1473

Rose, Toni (D)

Relating to the standard service and disability retirement benefits for members of the employee class of the Employees Retirement System of Texas

HB 1474

Guillen, Ryan (R)

Relating to protections for pregnant and parenting students enrolled in public institutions of higher education.

HB 1501

Walle, Armando (D)

Relating to the eligibility of certain students enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution for the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

HB 1508

Darby, Drew (R)

Relating to certain powers and duties in relation to information resources at public institutions of higher education and other state agencies.

HB 1509

Patterson, Jared (R)

Relating to an annual report on financial support provided by public institutions of higher education to nonprofit media organizations.

HB 1551

Anchia, Rafael (D)

Relating to repayment of certain mental health professional education loans.

HB 1574

Harris, Caroline (F)(R)

Relating to early registration for parenting students at public institutions of higher education.

HB 1604

González, Mary (D)

Relating to a report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding students with disabilities in higher education.

HB 1607

Harris, Cody (R)

Relating to prohibiting certain instruction as part of a course at a public institution of higher education.

HB 1636

Canales, Terry (D)

Relating to baccalaureate degree programs offered by certain public junior colleges.

HB 1703

Ordaz, Claudia (D)

Relating to the workforce development evaluation system administered by the Texas Workforce Commission.

HB 1725

Vasut, Cody (R)

Relating to the payment of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas who resume service.

HB 1729

Rogers, Glenn (R)

Relating to a one-time supplemental payment of benefits under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 1755

Button, Angie Chen (R)

Relating to the creation of the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund.

HB 1758

Allen, Alma (D)

Relating to the payment of certain employer contributions for employed retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 1760

Hefner, Cole (R)

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of possessing a weapon in certain prohibited places associated with schools or postsecondary educational institutions.

HB 1790

Rogers, Glenn (R)

Relating to the payment of certain employer contributions for employed retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 1794

Schaefer, Matt (R)

Relating to the eligibility of The University of Texas at Tyler to receive formula funding for the university’s school of pharmacy.

HB 1802

Capriglione, Giovanni (R)

Relating to the compensation and professional representation of certain students participating in University Interscholastic League activities or in intercollegiate athletic programs at certain institutions of higher education.

HB 1810

Cain, Briscoe (R)

Relating to protection from employment retaliation for reporting the existence of certain policies, patterns, or practices of a local entity or institution of higher education related to immigration.

HB 1816

Muñoz, Sergio (D)

Relating to the governing board of certain junior college districts.

HB 1856

Jones, Jolanda (F)(D)

Relating to a firearms policy for campus peace officers commissioned by a public institution of higher education.

HB 1912

Button, Angie Chen (R)

Relating to student buildings fees at The University of Texas at Dallas.

HB 1935

Raymond, Richard Peña (D)

Relating to a study on best practices in STEM programs at minority-serving public institutions of higher education and to a grant program to implement those practices.

HB 1960

Morales, Eddie (D)

Relating to the name of and the course levels offered at Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College.

HB 1961

Leach, Jeff (R)

Relating to a one-time supplemental payment of benefits under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 1976

Johnson, Jarvis

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

HB 1997

Ortega, Evelina (D)

Relating to a study regarding establishing a public law school as a professional school of The University of Texas at El Paso.

HB 2012

Oliverson, Tom (R) and Metcalf, Will (R)

Relating to the display of the national motto in public school and institution of higher education classrooms.

HB 2046

Muñoz, Sergio (D)

Relating to eligibility to receive certain federal funding for postsecondary career and technology education distributed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

HB 2100

Price, Four (R)

Relating to eligibility requirements for student loan repayment assistance for certain mental health professionals.

HB 2108

Allison, Steve (R)

Relating to eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

HB 2160

Hinojosa, Gina (D)

Relating to mental health professional staffing requirements at law schools at public institutions of higher education.

HB 2177

Stucky, Lynn (R)

Relating to establishing a digital textbook and learning materials subscription pilot program.

HB 2197

Lopez, Ray (D)

Relating to assistance for tuition and fees at postsecondary educational institutions for certain members of the Texas military forces.

HB 2264

Talarico, James (D)

Relating to requiring public junior colleges to award course credit to students who hold a Child Development Associate credential.

HB 2270

Moody, Joe (D)

Relating to a requirement that certain students, interns, residents, and fellows receiving a clinical education at public or nonprofit hospitals receive an annual comprehensive health examination.

HB 2280

Anchía, Rafael (D)

Relating to the carrying of handguns on the campuses of and certain other locations associated with institutions of higher education.

HB 2340

Guillen, Ryan (R)

Relating to the effective date of retirement for certain members of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 2390

Isaac, Carrie (R)

Relating to prohibiting the designation of polling place locations on the campuses of institutions of higher education.

HB 2407

Talarico, James (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

HB 2445

Dutton, Harold (D)

Relating to an exemption from or refund of tuition and fees for certain lower-division students enrolled at Texas Southern University or Prairie View A&M University.

HB 2448

Guillen, Ryan (R)

Relating to creating a framework for including certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.

HB 2504

Button, Angie Chen (R)

Relating to the award of scholarship money by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy to certain accounting students.

HB 2540

Raymond, Richard Peña (D)

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for the siblings of certain military personnel.

HB 2579

Davis, Yvonne (D)

Relating to adjustments to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 2585

Thierry, Shawn (D)

Relating to automatic voter registration of students enrolled in public institutions of higher education.

HB 2631

Jones, Jolanda (D)

Relating to the withdrawal or revocation of an athletic scholarship by a public institution of higher education on the basis of a student athlete’s injury, illness, or disability.

HB 2637

Jones, Jolanda (D)

Relating to a study on certain declines in minority participation at public institutions of higher education.

HB 2639

Clardy, Thomas (R)

Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.

HB 2642

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information regarding certain women’s health programs to students.

HB 2724

Bell, Cecil (R)

Relating to prohibiting a public institution of higher education from partnering with certain private entities for the construction of a student housing facility.

HB 2736

Toth, Steve (R)

Relating to requirements regarding certain student resources provided to public and private school students by a public or private primary or secondary school, institution of higher education, state agency, or public library.

HB 2760

Hefner, Cole (R)

Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

HB 2804

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to use of the name, image, or likeness of a student athlete participating in an intercollegiate athletic program at an institution of higher education.

HB 2871

González, Mary (D)

Relating to adjustments to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 2920

Paul, Dennis (R)

Relating to the information maintained by the Texas Education Agency regarding postsecondary education and career opportunities.

HB 3024

Canales, Terry (D)

Relating to baccalaureate degree programs offered by certain public junior colleges.

HB 3048

Raney, John (D)

Relating to the authority of certain public institutions of higher education to offer programs and courses in junior college district service areas.

HB 3085

Lalani, Salman (D)

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide applicants with certain information regarding eligibility for public health programs.

HB 3149

Zwiener, Erin (D)

Relating to the creation of a universal higher education savings trust account by the Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board.

HB 3164

Tepper | Noble | Jetton | Patterson | Capriglione with co-authors Bumgarner | Cain | Cook | Dorazio | Frank | Gates | Gerdes | Harris, Cody | Harrison | Hull | Isaac | Kitzman | Lujan | Orr | Slawson | Smith | Swanson | Thimesch | Toth | VanDeaver | Vasut | Wilson

Relating to the prohibition of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and employees at public institutions of higher education.

HB 3172

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to the availability of menstrual products and lactation rooms at public institutions of higher education.

HB 3211

Stucky, Lynn (R)

Relating to a campus of the Texas State Technical College System located in Denton County.

HB 3268

Talarico, James (D)

Relating to repealing certain restrictions and prohibitions regarding labor unions.

HB 3280

Leo-Wilson, Terri (R)

Relating to the enrollment, including resident status and tuition rates, of certain persons, including persons not authorized to be present in the United States, in public institutions of higher education.

HB 3287

Anderson, Charles (R)

Relating to the locations of the campuses of the Texas State Technical College System.

HB 3296

Raney, John (R)

Relating to reporting requirements regarding certain data related to students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

HB 3337

Cole, Sheryl (D)

Relating to the provision of menstrual products at public institutions of higher education.

HB 3471

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to the general responsibility of public institutions of higher education and to protected expression and academic freedom at those institutions.

HB 3486

Turner, Chris (D)

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

HB 3552

Thierry, Shawn (D)

Relating to the creation of the Texas Slavery and Segregation Commission.

HB 3561

VanDeaver, Gary (R)

Relating to the payment of certain contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas who resume service.

HB 3569

Allison, Steven (R)

Relating to authorizing cost-of-living adjustments applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 3619

Burrows, Dustin (R)

Relating to prohibiting the investment of the permanent university fund, the national research university fund, or money held by a public institution of higher education in financial companies that boycott certain energy companies.

HB 3627

Lalani, Salman (D)

Relating to signs posted by public institutions of higher education to facilitate the reporting of and to prevent incidents of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

HB 3631

Lalani, Salman (D)

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information regarding mental health services to entering students.

HB 3636

Goodwin, Vikki (D)

Relating to a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and a study on the feasibility of providing annual adjustments and an optional cash balance benefit under the system.

HB 3638

VanDeaver, Gary (R)

Relating to the break-in service period for certain retirees preventing the loss of benefits and the state making payments for certain retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas who resume service.

HB 3674

Rogers, Glenn (R)

Relating to the creation of a rural dual credit grant program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

HB 3676

Rogers, Glenn (R)

Relating to the creation of a rural dual credit pilot program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

HB 3682

Tepper, Carl (F)(R)

Relating to a prohibition against affirmative action in governmental employment and in higher education admissions.

HB 3687

Meza, Terry (D)

Relating to the use by a public institution of higher education of money appropriated to the institution by the legislature as part of an across-the-board salary increase for state employees.

HB 3698

Jones, Jolanda (D)

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information regarding certain women’s health programs to students.

HB 3851

Paul, Dennis (R)

Relating to academic boycotts at institutions of higher education.

HB 3901

Burns, DeWayne (R)

Relating to a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

HB 3911

Herrero, Abel (D)

Relating to a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

HB 3988

Reynolds, Ron (D)

Relating to the creation of the Texas Advanced Research Institute.

HB 3993

Paul, Dennis (R)

Relating to the automatic admission of students with a nontraditional secondary education to certain public institutions of higher education.

HB 4005

Raney, John (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

HB 4019

Jones, Venton (D)

Relating to inquiries into the criminal and disciplinary history of an applicant for undergraduate admission to a public institution of higher education.

HB 4021

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to the eligibility of certain students enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution for the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

HB 4043

Hayes, Richard (R)

Relating to the governance of public institutions of higher education.

HB 4058

Cortez, Philip (D)

Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.

HB 4086

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to the identification and mapping of aggregate production operations by The University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology.

HB 4092

Dutton, Harold (D)

Relating to the methods to achieve a college, career, or military outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program.

HB 4104

Johnson, Ann (D)

Relating to a nursing dual credit pilot program.

HB 4109

Troxclair, Ellen (R)

Relating to the information maintained by the Texas Education Agency regarding postsecondary education and career opportunities.

HB 4131

Bailes, Ernest (R)

Relating to the use of funds awarded under the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) Grant Program.

HB 4137

Plesa, Mihaela (D)

Relating to the provision of contraceptive methods at public institutions of higher education

HB 4162

Wu, Gene (D)

Relating to housing between academic terms for certain students at public institutions of higher education who were formerly under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

HB 4251

Cook, David (R)

Relating to the provision of postsecondary education to certain inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

HB 4315

Hefner, Cole (R)

Relating to the participation of the medical school at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler in the Joint Admission Medical Program.

HB 4330

Bhojani, Salman (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

HB 4339

Frank, James (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Education Savings Account Program to allow certain disadvantaged children and their siblings to use public money to pursue educational alternatives to public schools and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.

HB 4340

Frank, James (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Education Savings Account Program to allow certain children to use public money to pursue educational alternatives to public schools and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.

HB 4363

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to the establishment of a scholarship program for aspiring classroom teachers.

HB 4374

Lujan, John (R)

Relating to substance abuse awareness programs in public schools and public institutions of higher education

HB 4411

Dutton, Harold (D)

Relating to the apprenticeship system of adult career and technology education.

HB 4419

Goldman, Craig (R)

Relating to the promotion of the film and television production industry in this state.

HB 4434

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to the establishment of certain programs to facilitate early high school graduation and enrollment at public institutions of higher education and to the repeal of the Early High School Graduation Scholarship program.

HB 4437

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to the confidentiality of student records held by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

HB 4448

Reynolds, Ron (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

HB 4462

Frank, James (R)

Relating to transferring data analysis and certain reporting functions from the Department of Family and Protective Services to the Texas Tech University System.

HB 4466

Gervin-Hawkins

Relating to the offering of certain high school courses for which students may earn college credit.

HB 4487

Smith, Reggie (R)

Relating to student loan repayment assistance for prosecutors and certain criminal lawyers practicing in rural counties.

HB 4490

Garcia, Josey (D)

Relating to educational benefits for eligible persons attending a comprehensive transition and postsecondary program for students with intellectual disabilities

HB 4510

Smithee, John (R)

Relating to annual financial reports submitted by state agencies.

HB 4523

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

HB 4554

Slaton, Bryan (R)

Relating to the right of the people to keep and bear arms.

HB 4570

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to the language in which certain courses are offered by a public institution of higher education

HB 4571

Bucy, John (D)

Relating to measures to address student hunger at postsecondary educational institutions.

HB 4578

Longoria, Oscar (D)

Relating to limitations on the automatic admission of undergraduate students to general academic teaching institutions.

HB 4594

Garcia, Josey (D)

Relating to a study regarding the needs of military bases located in the state and programs of study offered at school districts and institutions of higher education to prepare students for employment on a military base.

HB 4605

Burns, DeWayne (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Leadership Scholars Program to serve as a merit-based scholarship and leadership opportunity for high-achieving, emerging leaders with financial need.

HB 4617

Bumgarner, Benjamin (R)

Relating to the requirements for an electronic system to monitor tuition and fee exemptions for veterans and military personnel and their dependents.

HB 4619

Johnson, Ann

Relating to establishment of the Texas Rare Disease Advisory Council.

HB 4631

Longoria, Oscar (D)

Relating to the creation of the Opportunity High School Diploma pilot program.

HB 4666

Dean, Jay (R)

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions for certain military personnel and their dependents.

HB 4678

Bryant, John (D)

Relating to establishing a social work recruitment and retention program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

HB 4684

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to nursing educational programs offered by for-profit entities.

HB 4722

Howard, Donna (D)

Relating to the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant program.

HB 4736

Tinderholt, Tony (R)

Relating to the enrollment, including admission and resident status, of certain persons by public institutions of higher education.

HB 4766

Dutton, Harold (D)

Relating to payment by a school district of the costs of developmental coursework provided by an institution of higher education under the success initiative.

HB 4778

Dutton, Harold (D)

Relating to the oversight of Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University.

HB 4814

Gerdes, Stan (R)

Relating to the use of certain land by The University of Texas System.

HB 4827

Leo-Wilson, Teri (R)

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of possessing or carrying a weapon in certain prohibited places associated with schools or educational institutions.

HB 4880

Tepper, Carl (R)(F)

Relating to the accreditation of public institutions of higher education; providing a private cause of action.

HB 4906

Hefner, Cole (R)

Relating to the authority to obtain certain search warrants of certain peace officers for school districts, state institutions of higher education, and public technical institutes.

HB 4935

Allen, Alma (D)

Relating to certain duties of a public institution of higher education in relation to the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

HB 4968

Guillen, Ryan (R)

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

HB 4990

Bonnen, Greg (R)

Relating to the creation, management, and administration of the Texas Pharmaceutical Initiative.

HB 4997

Kuempel, John (R)

Relating to a campus of the Texas State Technical College System located in Comal County and Guadalupe County.

HB 4997

Morales, Eddie (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Center for Rural Health Education at Sul Ross State University in Alpine.

HB 5001

Toth, Steve (R)

Relating to prohibiting public institutions of higher education from requiring diversity training as a condition for enrollment or registration.

HB 5033

Jones, Jolanda (D)

Relating to requiring public schools and public institutions of higher education to report data regarding certain arrests made on school or institution property.

HB 5073

Raymond

Relating to benefits and services for veterans and certain other related benefits.

HB 5074

Harrison, Brian (R)

Relating to the issuance of a license to practice medicine to certain applicants licensed or educated in a foreign country.

HB 5108

Harrison, Brian (R)

Relating to a study and report by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding a teacher apprenticeship program.

HB 5111

Allen, Alma (D)

Relating to requirements for the early college education program.

HB 5112

Schatzline, Nate (R)

Relating to the establishment of an education savings account program.

HB 5126

Shaheen, Matt (R)

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to publish certain online resources.

HB 5127

Shaheen, Matt (R)

Relating to public higher education reform; authorizing administrative penalties.

HB 5140

Cain, Briscoe (R)

Relating to a prohibition against the consideration of race or ethnicity as a factor in governmental employment or contracting, in other governmental functions, and in higher education admissions.

HB 5146

Raney, John (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities

HB 5148

Raney, John (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

HJR 2

Bonnen, Greg (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide one-time or ongoing benefit enhancements to eligible annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, including a one-time transfer of funds for that purpose.

HJR 3

Bonnen, Greg (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment renaming the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund, providing for the appropriation of certain investment income from the economic stabilization fund to the Texas University Fund, excepting appropriations to and from the Texas University Fund from the constitutional limit on the rate of growth of appropriations, and appropriating money from the general revenue fund to the Texas University Fund to be spent for purposes of providing funding to certain public institutions of higher education to achieve national prominence as major research universities and drive the state economy

HJR 21

Schofield, Mike (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain political subdivisions may impose on the residence homesteads of persons who are disabled or elderly.

HJR 24

Lopez, Ray (D)

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the legislature to appropriate funds to state institutions of higher education to fund certain education programs for veterans.

HJR 30

Goldman, Craig(R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain political subdivisions may impose on the residence homesteads of persons who are disabled or elderly.

HJR 49

Geren, Charlie(R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain political subdivisions may impose on the residence homesteads of persons who are disabled or elderly.

HJR 67

Lopez, Ray (D)

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the legislature to appropriate funds to state institutions of higher education to fund certain education benefits provided to veterans and family members of veterans.

HR 274

Martinez, Armando (D)

Recognizing February 22, 2023, as Rio Grande Valley Day at the State Capitol.

HR 275

Stucky, Lynn (R)

Recognizing February 21, 2023, as University of North Texas Day.

HR 286

Morrison, Geannie (R)

Recognizing March 7, 2023, as University of Houston-Victoria Day at the State Capitol.

HR 318

Paul, Dennis (R)

Recognizing March 7, 2023, as University of Houston-Clear Lake Day at the State Capitol.

HR 346

Frank, James (R)

Commemorating the centennial of Midwestern State University.

HB 354

Tepper | Thimesch

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of Texas Tech University.

HR 358

Darby, Drew (R)

Recognizing March 21, 2023, as Angelo State University Day at the State Capitol.

HR 437

Ortega | Moody | Ordaz | Morales, Eddie

Commemorating the 10th anniversary of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso becoming an independent university within the Texas Tech University System.

HR 487

Tepper, Carl (F)(R)

Honoring Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center on its achievements.

HR 520

Dutton, Harold (D)

Requesting the Speaker of the House to create an interim committee to study issues relating to food insecurity in Texas.

Senate Bills and Joint Resolutions

SB 34

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

SB 35

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

SB 36

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the establishment and operation of the Texas B-On-time student loan program.

SB 37

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the criminal offense of hazing.

SB 116

Menendez, Jose (D)

Relating to requiring a voter to present proof of identification.

SB 118

Menéndez, José (D) et al.

Relating to the designation of polling place locations on the campuses of certain institutions of higher education.

SB 174

Blanco, César (D)

Relating to the establishment of a public law school in El Paso County.

SB 194

Miles, Borris (D)

Relating to the creation of the Texas African American Heritage Commission.

SB 200

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the period for which an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student to a public institution of higher education is entitled to an academic fresh start.

SB 205

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the carrying of handguns on the campuses of and certain other locations associated with institutions of higher education.

SB 244

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Relating to support for nursing-related postsecondary education including the provision of loan repayment assistance to nursing faculty and the provision of grants to nursing education programs.

SB 257

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the reduction of methane gas flaring on land dedicated to the permanent university fund.

SB 278

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to exempting textbooks purchased, used, or consumed by university and college students from sales and use taxes for limited periods.

SB 286

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to conditions on the continued receipt of tuition and fee benefits at public institutions of higher education for senior citizens.

SB 336

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to compliance programs at public institutions of higher education

SB 371

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program.

SB 408

Hinojosa, Juan (D)

Relating to the Nursing Faculty Loan Repayment Assistance Program.

SB 411

Paxton, Angela (R)

Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to make available to students certain pregnancy–related informational materials published by the Department of State Health Services.

SB 412

Paxton, Angela (R)

Relating to protections for pregnant and parenting students enrolled in public institutions of higher education.

SB 413

Paxton, Angela (R)

Relating to protections for pregnant and parenting students enrolled in public institutions of higher education.

SB 427

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Relating to requiring certain institutions of higher education to enter into an agreement to offer undergraduate courses in Texas History.

SB 428

Middleton, Mayes (R)

Relating to the limitation on the number of baccalaureate degree programs a public junior college may offer.

SB 429

Middleton, Mayes (R)

Relating to the requirements for a public junior college to receive approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer a baccalaureate degree program.

SB 438

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

SB 453

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to the enforcement of certain requirements regarding the transfer of course credit between public institutions of higher education.

SB 454

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Emergency Aid for Public Postsecondary Students (TEAPPS) grant program for students at certain public institutions of higher education.

SB 455

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to the measures to encourage eligible students to claim certain tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for students who are or have been in foster or other residential care.

SB 458

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Relating to nursing educational programs offered by for-profit entities.

SB 459

Paxton, Angela (R)

Relating to early registration for parenting students at public institutions of higher education.

SB 462

Parker, Tan (R)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

SB 473

Hughes, Bryan (R)

Relating to providing information to undergraduate students regarding certain fixed or flat tuition rates provided by certain public institutions of higher education.

SB 487

Springer, Drew (R)

Relating to authorizing of any Community College District to offer a baccalaureate degree program in the field of education.

SB 518

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Relating to requiring the consideration of standardized test scores as a factor in nonautomatic admissions decisions at certain public institutions of higher education.

SB 526

West, Royce (D)

Relating to requiring prior approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer a degree or certificate program to certain persons who are incarcerated or subject to involuntary civil commitment.

SB 532

West, Royce (D)

Relating to repayment of certain mental health professional education loans.

SB 548

Blanco, Cesar (D)

Relating to a limitation on the amount of tuition charged by public institutions of higher education.

SB 557

West, Royce (D)

Relating to the eligibility of certain students enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution for the supplemental nutrition assistance program.

SB 588

Hughes, Bryan (R)

Relating to creating a temporary educator certification for certain military service members and first responders.

SB 592

Alvarado, Carol (D)

Relating to the creation of the Lone Star Workforce of the Future Fund.

SB 597

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the designation of liaison officers to assist certain students at public institutions of higher education who are parents.

SB 601

Birdwell, Brian (R)

Relating to a campus of the Texas State Technical College System located in Ellis County.

SB 633

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to the provision of information regarding mental health and suicide prevention services to entering students at public institutions of higher education.

SB 635

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the development of a state information technology credential offered by public junior colleges to address shortages in the state information resources workforce.

SB 642

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the issuance of a transcript by a postsecondary educational institution to a student who is in default on certain student loans.

SB 646

Nichols, Robert (R)

Relating to formula funding for certain nonresident students enrolled at Lamar State College–Orange.

SB 649

Middleton, Mayes (R)

Relating to participation in athletic activities based on biological sex; providing a civil right to action for K-12 athletes and college athletes.

SB 657

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Teacher Recruitment Scholarship Program and the Texas Teacher Retention Incentive Program.

SB 669

West, Royce (D)

Relating to a one-time supplemental payment of benefits under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

SB 672

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to baccalaureate degree programs offered by certain public junior colleges.

SB 689

Middleton, Mayes (R)

Relating to the establishment of a public safety dual credit grant program by the Texas Education Agency.

SB 692

Zaffirini, Judith (D) and Hinojosa, Juan (D)

Relating to baccalaureate degree programs offered by certain public junior colleges.

SB 695

Hughes, Bryan (R)

Relating to funding for The University of Texas at Tyler’s school of pharmacy.

SB 696

West, Royce (D)

Relating to student buildings fees at The University of Texas at Dallas.

SB 708

LaMantia, Morgan (D)

Relating to certain credentials of value offered by general academic teaching institutions as part of a baccalaureate degree program.

SB 729

Huffman, Joan (R)

Relating to the cash balance benefit under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.

SB 779

Perry, Charles (R)

Relating to the use of scholarship money awarded by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy to certain fifth-year accounting students.

SB 804

Schwertner, Charles (R)

Relating to eligibility requirements for student loan repayment assistance for certain mental health professionals.

SB 846

Blanco, César (D)

Relating to authorizing the insurance of revenue bonds for certain capital projects at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso.

SB 847

Blanco, César (D)

Relating to authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds for certain capital projects at The University of Texas at El Paso.

SB 928

Parker, Tan (R)

Relating to the protection of personally identifiable student information and the use of covered information by an operator or educational entity; authorizing a civil and administrative penalty.

SB 937

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.

SB 951

Perry, Charles (R)

Relating to the award of scholarship money by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy to certain accounting students.

SB 969

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain correctional officers and jailers.

SB 992

Hinojosa, Juan (D)

Relating to establishing the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program and creating an allotment and outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program to support the program.

SB 999

West, Royce (D)

Relating to the requirement that providers of active shooter training at public schools and institutions of higher education obtain a certificate issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

SB 1055

Nichols, Robert (R)

Relating to the creation of a new university in Nacogdoches, Texas, within The University of Texas System; abolishing Stephen F. Austin State University.

SB 1058

Perry, Charles (R)

Relating to the university research fund and eligibility to receive money from the national research university fund.

SB 1073

West, Royce (D)

Relating to measures to assist students enrolled at public institutions of higher education who are homeless or who are or were in foster care.

SB 1128

Blanco, César (D)

Relating to the service of and certain benefits for members of the Texas military forces, including tuition assistance at postsecondary educational institutions.

SB 1152

Hall, Lucey (R)

Relating to requirements regarding certain student resources provided to public and private school students by a public or private primary or secondary school, institution of higher education, state agency, or public library.

SB 1201

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the development of a state information technology credential offered by public junior colleges to address shortages in the state information resources workforce.

SB 1223

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Relating to the definition of “school year” for purposes of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas

SB 1326

Blanco, César (D)

Relating to a requirement that certain students, interns, residents, and fellows receiving a clinical education at public or nonprofit hospitals receive an annual comprehensive health examination.

SB 1350

LaMantia, Morgan (D)

Relating to the exemption of tuition and laboratory fees at public institutions of higher education for certain paramedics.

SB 1356

Miles, Borris (D)

Relating to discrimination on the basis of hair texture or protective hairstyle associated with race.

SB 1711

Perry, Charles (R)

Relating to the protection of expressive activities at public institutions of higher education.

SB 1733

Johnson, Ann (D

Relating to the establishment of a housing assistance pilot program to assist certain students enrolled in public junior colleges.

SB 1758

Schwertner, Charles (R)

Relating to the use of certain land by The University of Texas System.

SB 1773

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to an annual adjustment for inflation to the monthly amount of longevity pay for state employees.

SB 1784

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Relating to use of the name, image, or likeness of a student athlete participating in an intercollegiate athletic program at an institution of higher education.

SB 1796

Menéndez, José (D)

Relating to establishing a social work recruitment and retention program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

SB 1876

Middleton, Mayes (R)

Relating to the transfer of course credit between public institutions of higher education.

SB 1887

West, Royce (D)

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

SB 1944

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Relating to the standard service retirement benefits for members of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

SB 1974

Miles, Borris (D)

Relating to the creation of the Texas Advanced Research Institute.

SB 2313

Hughes, Bryan (R)

Relating to prohibiting public institutions of higher education from requiring diversity training as a condition for enrollment or registration.

SJR 26

Perry, Charles (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment to entitle all component institutions of The Texas A&M University System and The University of Texas System to participate in the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund.

SJR 49

Perry, Charles (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment creating a university research fund to support emerging research universities in The University of Texas System or The Texas A&M University System and disqualifying all component institutions of those university systems from receiving money from the national research university fund.

SJR 69

Perry, Charles (R)

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating to the national research university fund a portion of certain income from the lease for oil and gas exploration of land dedicated to the permanent university fund.

SR 133

Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Recognizing February 9, 2023, as St. Edward’s University Day.

SR 171

Nichols, Robert (R)

Recognizing Stephen F. Austin State University on the occasion of its 100th anniversary.

SR 174

All Senators and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R)

Recognizing February 15, 2023 as Orange and Maroon Legislative Day.

SR 192

Springer, Drew (R) | Perry, Charles (R)

Recognizing February 21, 2023, as University of North Texas Day.

SR 195

Perry, Charles (R)

Recognizing February 22, 2023, as Lubbock Day.

SR 196

LaMantia, Morgan (D) | Hinojosa, Juan (D) | Zaffirini, Judith (D)

Recognizing February 22, 2023, as Rio Grande Valley Day at the State Capitol.

SR 197

Kolkhorst, Lois (R) | Miles, Borris (D) | West, Royce (D)

Recognizing the College of Agriculture and Human Sciences at Prairie View A&M University on its contributions to higher education.

SR 211

Menéndez | Alvarado | Bettencourt | Campbell | Creighton | Flores | Gutierrez | Johnson | Kolkhorst | LaMantia | Parker | Perry | Schwertner | Zaffirini

Recognizing February 22, 2023, as UTSA Day.

SR 227

Perry | Springer

Recognizing the centennial of Midwestern State University.

SR 234

Miles | Alvarado | Bettencourt | Creighton | Huffman | Middleton | Whitmire

Recognizing March 2, 2023, as University of Houston Day.

SR 242

Perry, Charles (R)

Commemorating the 100th anniversary of Texas Tech University.

SR 250

Hinojosa | LaMantia

Recognizing February 28, 2023, as Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi Day.

SR 263

Eckhardt, Sarah (D)

Commemorating the Capital of Texas Undergraduate Research Conference.

SR 282

Miles | Alvarado | West | Whitmire

Recognizing March 7, 2023, as Texas Southern University Day.

SR 283

Kolkhorst, Lois (R)

Recognizing March 7, 2023, as University of Houston-Victoria Day.

SR 287

Miles | Alvarado | Whitmire

Recognizing March 8, 2023, as University of Houston-Downtown Day.

SR 292

Perry | Sparks

Honoring Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center on its achievements.

We are facing unprecedented challenges to academic freedom, tenure, and shared governance in Texas and beyond. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) is on the front lines advocating for current and future faculty with university administrations, boards of regents, state legislatures, and the federal government.

We invite tenure-track, tenured and professional faculty as well as research staff, post-doctoral researchers, and graduate students to join AAUP. Since its founding in 1915, AAUP has helped to shape American higher education by developing the standards and procedures that maintain education quality and academic freedom in this country’s colleges and universities. AAUP is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers (1.7M members including 148,000 faculty members).

Link to join AAUP or renew your AAUP membership.

Here are specific benefits to you as an AAUP member:

• Connect with AAUP members in the UT Austin AAUP Chapter which holds meetings every semester on Zoom
• Connect with AAUP members at the Texas AAUP Conference which holds meetings every semester in person and on Zoom
• Advocate with the Texas AAUP Conference and other faculty organizations for academic freedom, tenure, and shared governance in the State Legislature
• Be a voting member of and stand for officer elections in the UT Austin AAUP Chapter and Texas AAUP Conference
• Access AAUP member benefits including biennial summer institutes, webinars, and subscription to Academe magazine on academic freedom
• Access AFT member benefits including financial & legal services, insurance, and mortgage & home services

Membership funds will allow AAUP national to support

• members facing tenure denial, termination, or disciplinary action
• committees formulating educational, research and other policies

In November 2021, AAUP successfully intervened on behalf of Huriya Jabbar and other UT Austin faculty members on the GoKAR! Project after UT Austin administration had paused the project. (See the AAUP Academe article and Texas Tribune story.)

The AAUP’s Governing Council approved a Legislative and Policy Agenda for 2023 that includes

• A Federal-State Partnership for Free College
• Federal Funding for Higher Education Programs (Pell Grant, etc.)
• Advancing the Economic Security and Collective Bargaining Rights of Faculty
• Upholding Academic Freedom and Opposing Legislative Interference in Teaching
• State Funding of Higher Education
• Racial Diversity and College Admissions

More details here.

Updated March 26, 2023.

Advocacy is telling your story. For advocacy on academic freedom, tenure, and other higher ed values, tell your story about why you are passionate about teaching, research, and/or service. How has the academic freedom from censorship by the institution or government fostered intellectual exploration and critical thinking skills in the students you’ve taught and those you’ve worked with in research? Any moments of “light bulbs” turning on for students? Any stories of supporting students during the pandemic? Any stories of alumni? What other ways have your teaching, research, and service benefitted Texans and Texas? How has your discipline benefitted Texans and Texas? Please tell your story in way the general public can understand.

Our Texas Legislature Higher Ed Bill Tracker lists the bills supportive of academic freedom, tenure and other higher ed values and those that aren’t. The Texas AAUP Conference has been advocating at the State Legislature with the Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Texas Faculty Association, Texas Association of College Teachers, and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. We have now met with all 11 members of the House Higher Education Committee as well as 22 other State Legislators or their staff.

Below is contact info for Texas AAUP members and other resources that can help you in writing op-eds, social media posts, and talking points, as well as meeting Legislators. Here are the Higher Ed Bills filed in the Texas Legislature being tracked by the Texas AAUP Conference. Here are one-page handouts on the impact of banning teaching of critical race theory, diversity equity & inclusion, and tenure. And here is an Analysis of SB 16, 17 & 18 to ban teaching of critical race theory, ban diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and eliminate tenure.

Organize with your colleagues

• Texas AAUP Contacts:
  Karma Chávez, karmachavez@gmail.com, in Austin;
  Teresa Klein, terklein@gmail.com, in Corpus Christi;
  Ludovic Sourdot, lasourdot@gmail.com, in Dallas;
  Tony Villanueva, tvmc98@yahoo.com, in San Antonio

Op-ed resources, blogs, and social media posts:

• Texas AAUP Contacts:
  Jen Ebbeler, jenebbeler@gmail.com, Op-eds & Blogs;
  Bill Fagelson, bfagelson@gmail.com, Op-eds & Blogs;
  Andrea Gore, andrea.gore@icloud.com, Op-eds;
  Polly Strong, strongpolly@gmail.com, Social Media Posts
• OpEd Primer by Andrea Gore, Texas AAUP
• Op-Ed Project Community Resources
• Andrea Gore, “UT scientist: Killing tenure would ruin the state’s research universities“, Houston Chronicle, March 24, 2023.

General Legislative advocacy training

• Texas AAUP Contacts:
  Brian Evans, halftoning@juno.com;
  Jim Klein, jeklein20@gmail.com;
  Teresa Klein, terklein@gmail.com
• “How a Bill Becomes Law“, Texas House of Representatives
• Texas Civil Rights Project, Texas Lege 101, Recorded Feb. 28, 2023.
• Texas AAUP Advocacy for Academic Freedom, Tenure and Other Higher Education Values in Texas, Mar. 24, 2023
• Suggestions for Legislative Action during the 88th Texas Legislative Session, Mar. 24, 2023
• Texas AFT Legislative Briefing, on Zoom, Thursday, Apr. 20, 2023, 6:30-7:30pm CT. Register here.

Talking points and white papers

• Texas AAUP Contacts:
  Brian Evans, halftoning@juno.com;
  Jim Klein, jeklein20@gmail.com
• AAUP & AFT Analysis of SB 16, 17 & 18 to ban CRT, DEI & tenure
• Banning CRT: one-page white paper and two-page talking points
• Banning DEI: one-page white paper and four-page talking points
• Demographics of UT Austin, Texas A&M and the State of Texas
• Eliminating tenure: one-page white paper and two-page talking points
• Texas AAUP Supporting Higher Education Values in Texas, Feb. 2023
• Texas AAUP Legislative Agenda, Jan. 2023
• TACT Legislative Agenda, Dec. 2022, Jim Klein, TACT President

Meet Legislators

• Texas AAUP Contacts:
  Brian Evans, halftoning@juno.com;
  Jim Klein, jeklein20@gmail.com
• Sign up for Texas State Employees Union Lobby Day, Wednesday, April 12, 2023. Agenda: 10-11am Lunch, 11am-12:30pm Rally, 12:30-4:30pm Legislator Visits. This is concerned with employment at public higher ed institutions. Buy your ticket here.

Testifying at the Texas Legislature

• Texas AAUP / AFT Contact David Albert, davidalbertphd@gmail.com
• Sign up for Texas AFT training for testifying at the Texas Legislature.
• Guide to Testifying by the Texas Election Reform Commission

National AAUP statements on related issues:

• Advancing Academic Freedom
• Educational Gag Orders: Legislative Interference in Teaching About Race
• Shared Governance
• Tenure

Receive news about education issues at the State Capitol:

• The Hotline Newsletter, Texas AFT
• Legislative Insider, Texas Association of College Teachers

For a couple of decades, the following statewide faculty organizations have been working together in outreach to the State Legislature on higher educations issues related to academic freedom, tenure, shared governance, freedom of speech, funding, and other matters:

• Texas American Association of University Professors (AAUP)
• Texas Association of College Teachers
• Texas Faculty Association, Texas State Teachers Association, NEA
• Texas Council of Faculty Senates

More recently, the above faculty orgs have also been working with

• Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT), AFL-CIO
• Texas State Employees Union (TSEU), CWA, AFL-CIO
• Texas Legislative Education Equity Coalition (TLEEC)

These connections came from AAUP’s affiliation with AFT on August 1st.

Please see the posts Spring 2023 Legislative Visits and Faculty Visit the State Legislature.