The bill, introduced by Senator Menndez, 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. 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 specifically targeting students in grades 9 through 12. These programs will provide informational materials about the exemptions to residential child-care facilities, foster parents, and schools. The language has been updated to clarify the grade range and the entities that should receive this information.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 54.3671, which mandates the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Department of Family and Protective Services to create a streamlined eligibility determination and application process for these tuition exemptions. This process aims to reduce administrative burdens by minimizing data collection and allowing students to apply electronically. It also includes provisions for automatic submission of eligibility documentation to the relevant institutions, thereby simplifying the process for eligible students.

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