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TX HB2311

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/31/2025

Primary Sponsor

Brian Harrison

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Removes existing exemptions that previously allowed public universities to submit diversity-related statements for grant applications or accreditation purposes, including statements about supporting first-generation, low-income, or underserved students

  • Eliminates carve-outs that protected academic course instruction, scholarly research, student organization activities, guest speakers, student achievement programs, data collection, and student recruitment from DEI restrictions

  • Requires university governing boards to submit annual compliance certification reports to the legislature and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board before spending any appropriated funds

  • Mandates the state auditor conduct compliance audits of each institution at least once every four years, with violating institutions given 180 days to cure violations or face ineligibility for formula funding increases and institutional enhancements

  • Preserves provisions allowing students or employees required to participate in prohibited DEI training to bring legal action for injunctive or declaratory relief, and maintains the biennial study requirement on student outcomes (expiring September 1, 2029)

Legislative Description

Relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education.

Education

Last Action

Referred to Higher Education

3/14/2025

Committee Referrals

Higher Education3/14/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available