The bill, H.B. No. 277, aims to enhance awareness and accessibility of tuition and fee exemptions for students in foster care or other residential care at public institutions of higher education in Texas. It amends Sections 54.366 and 54.367 of the Education Code to require the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to develop outreach programs that inform eligible students in grades 9 through 12 about these exemptions. The outreach efforts will include providing informational materials to residential child-care facilities, foster parents, and schools, ensuring that all relevant parties are aware of the available financial support.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 54.3671, which mandates the creation of a streamlined eligibility determination and application process for these tuition exemptions. This process is designed to reduce administrative burdens by minimizing data collection and allowing students to apply electronically through the Department of Family and Protective Services' website. For students deemed eligible, the department will automatically submit the necessary documentation to the respective institutions, facilitating a smoother transition into higher education for these students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 54.366, Education Code 54.367 (Education Code 54)