H.B. No. 170 aims to establish regulations regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill amends Sections 51.3525(c)-(j) of the Education Code, removing previous language that limited institutions' ability to highlight their support for first-generation college students, low-income students, and underserved populations when applying for grants or accreditation. It introduces new provisions requiring institutions to submit a report to the legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board certifying compliance with these initiatives before spending state funds. Additionally, the state auditor is tasked with conducting periodic compliance audits to ensure institutions are adhering to the new regulations.

The bill also allows students or employees to take legal action against institutions if they are required to participate in training that violates the outlined provisions. Furthermore, it mandates the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to conduct a biennial study assessing the impact of these initiatives on various student metrics, disaggregated by race, sex, and ethnicity, with a report due to the legislature every even-numbered year until September 1, 2029. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will become effective 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()