S.B. No. 37 aims to improve the governance of public institutions of higher education in Texas by implementing new requirements for curriculum review, degree program evaluation, and faculty oversight. The bill mandates that governing boards conduct a comprehensive review of the general education curriculum and graduation requirements every five years, ensuring that the curriculum is foundational and does not promote any ideology suggesting the superiority of one race, sex, or belief over another. Additionally, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with conducting a credential of value review for degree programs every five years, and institutions must assign value ratings to their programs based on this review. The bill also grants governing boards authority over faculty hiring decisions and requires annual reporting on these actions.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for the establishment and operation of faculty councils or senates, which can only be created by the governing board and must include adequate representation from each college or school. These councils serve in an advisory capacity without decision-making authority. The legislation emphasizes shared governance, clarifying that while faculty may provide input, the governing board retains ultimate decision-making power. It also establishes accountability measures for false complaints against institutions and streamlines the approval process for new degree programs. Additionally, governing board members must complete a training program and provide a sworn statement affirming their understanding of their responsibilities. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if not passed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.352, Education Code 61.084 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 51.352, Education Code 61.052, Education Code 61.084 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.352, Education Code 61.0512, Education Code 61.052, Education Code 61.084 (Education Code 61, Education Code 51)