S.B. No. 2647 amends the Education Code of Texas by introducing two new subchapters, G-1 and G-2, which establish a comprehensive framework for the accreditation of postsecondary educational institutions. Subchapter G-1 mandates the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to identify and approve at least three accrediting agencies, conduct biennial evaluations of these agencies, and ensure that institutions seek accreditation from those with satisfactory ratings. Institutions accredited by agencies rated unsatisfactory must obtain new accreditation within specified timeframes, and the board has the authority to revoke agency approvals as necessary.

Subchapter G-2 creates the Texas Accreditation Agency as the primary accrediting body, governed by a board of trustees, and outlines its powers to develop rigorous accreditation standards, particularly for law, medical, and dental schools. The agency is required to maintain a publicly accessible database of accredited institutions and their evaluations, ensuring transparency. The bill also introduces a voluntary accreditation process for out-of-state and private institutions, allows the agency to collect fees for its operations, and removes references to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, replacing them with the term "recognized accrediting agency." Additionally, it sets timelines for the agency to develop its processes and submit reports to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the legislature, with the new provisions taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 61.003, Education Code 61.0515, Education Code 61.05151, Education Code 61.222, Education Code 61.8235, Education Code 107.151, Education Code 107.201, Education Code 130.301, Education Code 130.305, Education Code 130.307 (Education Code 130, Education Code 107, Education Code 61)