H.B. No. 538 amends the Education Code to enhance student access to academic records, specifically transcripts and certificates of completion, from postsecondary educational institutions. The bill mandates that institutions must release these documents upon a student's request, except in cases where the student has not fulfilled their financial obligations. In such cases, the release is contingent upon the student meeting specific criteria, including not being enrolled for at least five years, providing evidence of job application or intent to enroll elsewhere, and demonstrating a good faith effort to settle 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, with the stipulation that the fee must be uniform for all students, although lower fees may be offered based on criteria unrelated to financial obligations. Furthermore, the bill repeals Section 132.062 and modifies existing language regarding the issuance of certificates upon completion of training. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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