S.B. No. 1032 amends the Education Code to expand the definition of "eligible institution" for participation in the governor's university research initiative. The bill adds new categories of institutions, specifically including general academic teaching institutions, medical and dental units, and private or independent institutions of higher education. This change is reflected in the amendments to Sections 62.003(1) and 62.161(2), which clarify the types of institutions that can qualify for funding under the initiative.

Additionally, the bill modifies Section 62.163(d) to prohibit eligible institutions from using matching grants to recruit distinguished researchers from other eligible institutions or private and independent institutions of higher education. The amendments will take effect starting with grants awarded for the 2025-2026 academic year. The bill is set to become effective immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 62.161, Education Code 62.163 (Education Code 62)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 62.003, Education Code 62.161, Education Code 62.163 (Education Code 62)
Engrossed: Education Code 62.003, Education Code 62.161, Education Code 62.163 (Education Code 62)
House Committee Report: Education Code 62.003, Education Code 62.161, Education Code 62.163 (Education Code 62)
Enrolled: Education Code 62.003, Education Code 62.161, Education Code 62.163 (Education Code 62)