H.B. No. 1784 aims to enhance support for students enrolled in public institutions of higher education who are either homeless or have been in foster care. The bill amends existing sections of the Education Code to include provisions for designating liaison officers at institutions to assist these students. Specifically, it expands the definition of eligible students to include those who are homeless, as defined by federal law, and mandates that institutions provide information about available support services, housing options, and financial aid. Additionally, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with adopting rules to ensure that liaison officers participate in professional development programs.

The bill also introduces a new section that prioritizes housing assignments for homeless students in student housing facilities. It requires institutions to identify students who are homeless and to provide them with necessary resources. Furthermore, a memorandum of understanding is to be established among the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Education Agency, and the Department of Family and Protective Services to facilitate the exchange of information regarding the educational outcomes of these students. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.9356, Education Code 51.978, Education Code 61.0908, Education Code 61.0909 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)