TX SB2647

Requires the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to identify and approve at least three accrediting agencies for institutions of higher education, conduct biennial evaluations rating each as satisfactory or unsatisfactory, and assess whether agencies require actions conflicting with state law

Establishes the Texas Accreditation Agency as the primary accrediting body for Texas public higher education institutions, governed by an 11-member board of trustees (5 appointed by the governor, 6 elected by various institution types), administratively attached to the Coordinating Board

Mandates institutions accredited by agencies receiving unsatisfactory ratings must obtain new accreditation from a satisfactory-rated agency within 5 years; noncompliant institutions face withholding of all state funding by the comptroller after a 180-day correction period

Creates specialized divisions within the Texas Accreditation Agency for medical/dental schools and law schools, requiring collaboration with the Texas Medical Board, State Board of Dental Examiners, and Board of Law Examiners on accreditation standards

Requires Texas institutions to transition to the new Texas Accreditation Agency after their current accreditation cycle expires (for cycles beginning before January 1, 2027), contingent on the agency receiving U.S. Department of Education recognition; the agency must seek federal recognition by January 1, 2027