The bill, H.B. No. 538, amends the Education Code to enhance student access to academic records, specifically transcripts and certificates of completion. It mandates that postsecondary educational institutions must release these documents upon a student's request, even if the student has not fulfilled their financial obligations, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include the student not having been enrolled for at least five years, submitting a job posting or intent to enroll in another institution, and demonstrating 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 allows institutions to charge a reasonable fee for the release of transcripts or certificates, ensuring that the fee is consistent for all students, with potential exceptions based on criteria other than financial obligations. Furthermore, it clarifies the definition of "postsecondary educational institution" to include various types of educational entities. The bill repeals a previous section of the Education Code and makes other minor amendments, with an immediate effect contingent on legislative approval.

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)