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, defined as individuals under 25 years of age who meet the criteria set forth in federal law. The bill mandates that institutions identify these students and provide them with information about available support services, including housing, financial aid, and counseling.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that prioritizes access to student housing for homeless students, ensuring they receive necessary assistance during academic terms. It also requires the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to adopt rules and establish policies to facilitate these changes, including the designation of liaison officers and the creation of a memorandum of understanding among relevant state agencies to exchange information about 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)
House Committee Report: Education Code 51.9356, Education Code 51.978, Education Code 61.0908, Education Code 61.0909 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.9356, Education Code 51.978, Education Code 61.0908, Education Code 61.0909 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)