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TX SB37
Bill
Status
6/20/2025
Primary Sponsor
Charles Creighton
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AI Summary
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Governing boards of public higher education institutions must conduct comprehensive reviews of general education curriculum every five years, ensuring courses are foundational, prepare students for civic and professional life, and comply with accreditation standards, with annual updates on curriculum changes
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University presidents must implement review processes every five years for minor degree and certificate programs with low enrollment, requiring industry workforce demand data to avoid consolidation or elimination; programs operating less than five years are exempt
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Faculty councils or senates may only be established by governing boards under specific policies limiting membership to 60 members maximum, with advisory-only authority; existing faculty senates are abolished September 1, 2025, unless ratified by governing boards
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Governing boards gain new authority to approve or deny hiring of provosts and deputy/associate/assistant provosts, overturn vice president or dean hiring decisions, and must report annually on these hiring decisions to the governor and legislature
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Establishes the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Office of the Ombudsman, appointed by the governor, to receive complaints about institutional noncompliance, investigate violations, and potentially recommend withholding appropriated funds from non-compliant institutions
Legislative Description
Relating to the governance of public institutions of higher education, including review of curriculum and certain degree and certificate programs, a faculty council or senate, training for members of the governing board, and the establishment, powers, and duties of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Office of the Ombudsman.
Education
Last Action
Effective on 9/1/25
6/20/2025