H.B. No. 538 amends the Education Code to enhance student access to academic records, specifically transcripts and certificates of completion. The bill mandates that postsecondary educational institutions must release these documents to students upon request, with certain conditions outlined in new subsections. For students who have not fulfilled their financial obligations, institutions are required to release transcripts or certificates only if the student has not been enrolled for at least five years, provides evidence of job application or intent to enroll elsewhere, and demonstrates a good faith effort to meet their financial obligations. Additionally, transcripts or certificates must be sent directly to the requesting employer or institution.

The bill also introduces provisions allowing institutions to charge a reasonable fee for the release of transcripts or certificates, ensuring that the fee structure is consistent for all students, with potential exceptions based on criteria unrelated to financial obligations. Furthermore, it clarifies the definitions of "postsecondary educational institution" to include various types of educational entities. The bill repeals a previous section and modifies existing language regarding the issuance of certificates upon completion of training. If passed, the act will take effect immediately with a two-thirds majority vote or on September 1, 2025, if not.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.9715, Education Code 54.057, Education Code 132.055, Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 51, Education Code 54, Education Code 132)
House Committee Report: Education Code 51.9715, Education Code 54.057, Education Code 132.055, Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 51, Education Code 54, Education Code 132)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.9715, Education Code 54.057, Education Code 132.055, Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 51, Education Code 54, Education Code 132)