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 certain criteria related to their housing status. The bill also mandates that institutions provide information about available support services, including financial aid and housing options, to these students.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that requires institutions to prioritize housing assignments for students who are homeless. It establishes a framework for collaboration between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Department of Family and Protective Services, and the Texas Education Agency to facilitate the exchange of information regarding these students. The bill emphasizes the importance of professional development for liaison officers to better serve the needs of homeless students and outlines timelines for the implementation of these provisions. Overall, H.B. No. 1784 seeks to create a more supportive environment for vulnerable student populations in Texas higher education.

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)