The bill, H.B. No. 1634, aims to enhance tuition and fee exemptions for students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services at public institutions of higher education. Key amendments include expanding the eligibility criteria for exemptions by removing specific age limitations and clarifying the conditions under which students can qualify for these exemptions. The bill also mandates the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to develop outreach programs to inform students in grades 7 through 12 about these exemptions, replacing the previous focus on grades 9-12. Additionally, the outreach must include informational materials for various stakeholders, including residential child-care facilities and caregivers.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that establishes a streamlined eligibility determination and application process for these tuition and fee exemptions. This process is designed to reduce administrative burdens and facilitate electronic applications through the Department of Family and Protective Services' website. The changes in law will take effect starting with tuition and fees charged for the fall semester of 2025, while previous regulations will remain in effect for any terms before that date.

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