TX HB1705

Removes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) as the specifically named accrediting agency in Texas Education Code, replacing it with "any association or organization so designated by the board" (Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board)

Adds a new duty for the Coordinating Board to adopt rules ensuring each institution of higher education maintains proper accreditation required for participation in federal financial aid programs under 20 U.S.C. Section 1070a

Updates degree requirements for baccalaureate and associate degrees to reference the institution's "recognized accrediting agency" rather than specifically SACS when determining minimum semester credit hours

Modifies accreditation requirements for Texas Woman's University branch campuses in Dallas and Houston to require accreditation by any recognized accrediting agency rather than specifically SACS Commission on Colleges

Changes accreditation requirements for public junior colleges offering baccalaureate degree programs from the SACS Commission on Colleges to any recognized accrediting agency designated by the Coordinating Board