TX SB530

Removes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) as the specifically named accrediting agency in Texas law, replacing it with any accrediting agency designated by the 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 requirement provisions so that baccalaureate and associate degree credit hour minimums are based on the institution's recognized accrediting agency rather than specifically SACS

Modifies accreditation requirements for public junior colleges offering baccalaureate degree programs and for Texas Woman's University branch campuses in Dallas and Houston to reference any recognized accrediting agency

Takes effect September 1, 2025; passed Senate 24-7, House 114-28 with amendment, Senate concurred 23-8