H.B. No. 3701 amends Section 85.24 of the Education Code to enhance the authority of the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System regarding utility systems on university property. The bill allows the board to construct, acquire, improve, extend, and equip steam plants, power plants, and related utility systems, specifically in Brazos County. It clarifies that the board can provide various utility services, including water, sewer, steam, and electricity, to all buildings and facilities at the institutions under its control. The board is also empowered to allocate costs for these services and secure revenue bonds for financing related projects.

Key changes in the bill include the removal of the phrase "from time to time" and the term "central" when referring to power plants, as well as the addition of a new subsection (d) that explicitly grants the board the authority to construct and acquire power plants and utility systems in Brazos County. The bill also modifies language regarding the provision of services and the allocation of costs, ensuring that the board can effectively manage and finance utility services for the university system. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 85.24 (Education Code 85)
House Committee Report: Education Code 85.24 (Education Code 85)