The bill, S.B. No. 2376, amends the Education Code to enhance student access to academic records, specifically transcripts and diplomas, from public institutions of higher education and career schools or colleges. It establishes that institutions cannot withhold a student's transcript or diploma due to unpaid financial obligations if the amount is less than $500 or if the obligation has been outstanding for more than five years. For obligations of $500 or more, institutions may require students to enter into a repayment plan before releasing their records, but must provide the records upon the student's initiation of payment under that plan. Additionally, institutions are permitted to charge a fee for the release of transcripts or diplomas, which cannot exceed the cost of materials used for printing or sending the documents.

The bill also modifies existing language regarding career schools and colleges, ensuring that they follow similar guidelines for withholding transcripts or certificates of completion based on financial obligations. The new provisions clarify that a career school or college cannot withhold a student's records for the same financial thresholds and repayment plan requirements as those set for higher education institutions. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 132.062 (Education Code 132)