H.B. No. 4499 aims to improve the governance of public institutions of higher education in Texas by establishing a General Education Review Committee at each institution. This committee is responsible for annually reviewing the core curriculum and ensuring that courses are foundational to postsecondary education, prepare students for civic and professional life, and do not endorse specific ideologies. The bill requires governing boards to certify compliance with these provisions and prohibits the allocation of state funds until a compliance report is submitted to the legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Additionally, the bill introduces amendments that require governing boards to individually approve or deny recommendations from faculty councils regarding curriculum and academic policies, as well as to post meeting notices related to faculty positions in advance.

The legislation also creates the Office of Excellence in Higher Education, which will act as an intermediary between the legislature, the public, and higher education institutions, handling inquiries and investigating reports of noncompliance. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive training for governing board members, including a sworn statement of understanding their duties. Other provisions include stricter eligibility requirements for board appointees and enhanced performance evaluation processes for tenured faculty. The act is set to take effect in the 2025-2026 academic year, with certain sections applying to funds appropriated for the fiscal year beginning September 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.352, Education Code 61.084 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)