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 upon a student's request, except under certain conditions related to financial obligations. If a student has not been enrolled for at least five years, they can obtain their records even if they owe money to the institution, provided they demonstrate a good faith effort to settle their debts and include relevant job application information. Additionally, transcripts or certificates must be sent directly to the requesting employer or educational 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 specific criteria. Furthermore, it clarifies the definitions of "postsecondary educational institution" to include various types of educational entities. The bill repeals a previous section of the Education Code and modifies existing language regarding the issuance of certificates upon completion of training. If passed, the act would 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 54, Education Code 51, Education Code 132)
House Committee Report: Education Code 51.9715, Education Code 54.057, Education Code 132.055, Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 54, Education Code 51, Education Code 132)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.9715, Education Code 54.057, Education Code 132.055, Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 54, Education Code 51, Education Code 132)