House Bill No. 1634 aims to enhance tuition and fee exemptions for students who were under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services. The bill amends Sections 54.366 and 54.367 of the Education Code, expanding the eligibility criteria for exemptions by removing previous age restrictions and clarifying the conditions under which students can qualify. Specifically, it allows students who were in conservatorship on the day before their 18th birthday, during their high school years, or who have exited conservatorship and returned to their parents to be exempt from tuition and fees. Additionally, the bill mandates outreach programs to inform students in grades 7 through 12 and their caregivers about these exemptions.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section, 54.3671, which establishes a streamlined eligibility determination and application process for these tuition exemptions. This process aims to reduce administrative burdens by simplifying data collection and allowing electronic applications through the Department's website. The changes will take effect starting with the fall semester of 2025, ensuring that students can benefit from these provisions in a more efficient manner.

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