The bill proposes the establishment of a public law school in El Paso County, amending the Education Code to add Section 61.0907. This section allows the governing board of a university system to create and operate a law school, prescribe courses leading to customary law degrees, and manage the school through a general academic institution within the system. The governing board is also authorized to accept gifts and grants for the law school, with the establishment contingent upon the availability of funding. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board be notified of any intentions to establish a law school, and it outlines the process for determining which governing board may proceed with the establishment if multiple boards express interest.
Furthermore, the bill adds Section 55.178, which grants the governing board of the university system the authority to acquire and finance property and facilities for the law school through bond issuance, with a cap of $40 million. It also allows the board to pledge revenue funds, including tuition charges, to secure the bonds. The law school will be eligible for funding from the Texas Constitution, depending on which university system establishes it. The bill stipulates that it will take effect immediately if passed by a two-thirds majority in both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.
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