The bill amends the Education Code regarding baccalaureate degree programs offered by public junior colleges in Texas. It introduces a requirement for "continuing approval by the coordinating board" for these programs, replacing the previous limitation that restricted public junior colleges from offering more than five baccalaureate degree programs at any time. Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for offering such programs by removing the previous requirement that a junior college district must have a taxable property valuation of at least $6 billion and a positive financial health assessment from the coordinating board.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Section 130.307(b-1), which contained the aforementioned financial criteria. The changes aim to streamline the process for public junior colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees while ensuring that the programs remain subject to oversight by the coordinating board. The bill will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 130.306, Education Code 130.307 (Education Code 130)