S.B. No. 2786 amends Section 51.332 of the Education Code to expand the exemptions from the assessment requirements of the Texas Success Initiative for certain students who are public officers or employees. The bill introduces new categories of exempt students, including those who are certified as emergency medical technicians and employed by a political subdivision, as well as those included as fire protection personnel or serving as peace officers. The previous language that allowed exemptions for members of the armed forces and their reserves remains, but the bill adds to the list of eligible students.

The changes in law will take effect for the assessment of entering undergraduate students at public institutions of higher education starting with the fall semester of 2025. Any assessments conducted before this date will continue to follow the existing law. The bill requires a two-thirds majority vote for immediate effect; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 51.332 (Education Code 51)
Engrossed: Education Code 51.332 (Education Code 51)
House Committee Report: Education Code 51.332 (Education Code 51)
Enrolled: Education Code 51.332 (Education Code 51)