House Bill No. 291 introduces new regulations regarding medical school admissions, coursework, academic standards, and employment decisions in Texas. It amends the Education Code by adding several sections that define requirements for medical education. Specifically, it mandates that at least 50% of the coursework for medical degrees must be graded on a letter scale from A to F or a similar tiered system. Additionally, any revisions to academic standards for awarding degrees or certificates must be submitted to the legislature and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, including a copy of the proposed standards, a statement of reasons, and the effective date of the changes.

The bill also prohibits medical schools from granting admission or employment preferences based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin, while allowing for bona fide qualifications based on sex that are necessary for the operation of the school. These changes will apply to students enrolling in medical schools starting in the fall semester of 2026 and to admissions decisions made from that semester onward. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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