Budget Conferees Named

Though the upper and lower chambers individual proposals don’t seem all that different from a total spending standpoint, the ways in which they arrived at those numbers varies greatly. The Senate passed a measure to delay payment from the state’s highway fund, while the House agreed to tap into the Rainy Day Fund. The Texas Tribune has created a handy tool to compare both budget proposals here. Higher education is not immune to vast differences heading into the conference. The Senate has approved a 10 percent cut for UT-Austin. That’s a loss of another $48 million and zero funding for Special Items such as the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, or the Marine Science Institute. The House is more realistic, given the increased state divestment in the last few decades. The House proposes a 1 percent deduction for Special Items. Other issues for higher education have strong implications from budget talks too. Notably, we hope the Dell Medical School follows the House’s proposal and is given formula funding as a Health-Related Institution (HRI). This is a very important process to stay attuned to. We will do our best to send relevant updates as the following conferees kick the process off today: It is important for UT Advocates to call their members who may sit on this committee and urge them to keep UT-Austin and all it brings to state in mind when crafting the budget. You can find some helpful talking points here. Senate Conferees Senate Finance Chairwoman Jane Nelson Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa Senator Joan Huffman Senator Charles Schwertner Senator Lois Kolkhorst (Article III)   House Conferees House Appropriations Chairman John Zerwas Representative Sarah Davis Representative Larry Gonzales Representative Oscar Longoria Representative Trenton Ashby (Article III)

Budget Conferees Named

Though the upper and lower chambers individual proposals don’t seem all that different from a total spending standpoint, the ways in which they arrived at those numbers varies greatly. The Senate passed a measure to delay payment from the state’s highway fund, while the House agreed to tap into the Rainy Day Fund. The Texas Tribune has created a handy tool to compare both budget proposals here. Higher education is not immune to vast differences heading into the conference. The Senate has approved a 10 percent cut for UT-Austin. That’s a loss of another $48 million and zero funding for Special Items such as the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, or the Marine Science Institute. The House is more realistic, given the increased state divestment in the last few decades. The House proposes a 1 percent deduction for Special Items. Other issues for higher education have strong implications from budget talks too. Notably, we hope the Dell Medical School follows the House’s proposal and is given formula funding as a Health-Related Institution (HRI). This is a very important process to stay attuned to. We will do our best to send relevant updates as the following conferees kick the process off today: It is important for UT Advocates to call their members who may sit on this committee and urge them to keep UT-Austin and all it brings to state in mind when crafting the budget. You can find some helpful talking points here. Senate Conferees Senate Finance Chairwoman Jane Nelson Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa Senator Joan Huffman Senator Charles Schwertner Senator Lois Kolkhorst (Article III)   House Conferees House Appropriations Chairman John Zerwas Representative Sarah Davis Representative Larry Gonzales Representative Oscar Longoria Representative Trenton Ashby (Article III)

Budget Conferees Named

Though the upper and lower chambers individual proposals don’t seem all that different from a total spending standpoint, the ways in which they arrived at those numbers varies greatly. The Senate passed a measure to delay payment from the state’s highway fund, while the House agreed to tap into the Rainy Day Fund. The Texas Tribune has created a handy tool to compare both budget proposals here. Higher education is not immune to vast differences heading into the conference. The Senate has approved a 10 percent cut for UT-Austin. That’s a loss of another $48 million and zero funding for Special Items such as the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, or the Marine Science Institute. The House is more realistic, given the increased state divestment in the last few decades. The House proposes a 1 percent deduction for Special Items. Other issues for higher education have strong implications from budget talks too. Notably, we hope the Dell Medical School follows the House’s proposal and is given formula funding as a Health-Related Institution (HRI). This is a very important process to stay attuned to. We will do our best to send relevant updates as the following conferees kick the process off today: It is important for UT Advocates to call their members who may sit on this committee and urge them to keep UT-Austin and all it brings to state in mind when crafting the budget. You can find some helpful talking points here. Senate Conferees Senate Finance Chairwoman Jane Nelson Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa Senator Joan Huffman Senator Charles Schwertner Senator Lois Kolkhorst (Article III)   House Conferees House Appropriations Chairman John Zerwas Representative Sarah Davis Representative Larry Gonzales Representative Oscar Longoria Representative Trenton Ashby (Article III)

Update on Senate Bill 822

Senate Bill 822 (Estes) recently passed the full Senate and was sent to the House for referral to a committee. This bill would transfer property gifted to UT-Austin to benefit students to another state agency without compensation. This proposal would also deny UT-Austin the opportunity to generate income from the land to help students, all while the state drastically reduces financial support for the university.  We understand the fate of the Lions Municipal Golf Course is an important issue for some Longhorns. No matter how you feel about Lions Municipal Golf Course, it is critical for the community to understand that the proposal within SB 822 is the wrong way to handle the situation. This is a bad bill that will hurt UT-Austin and set a precedent that could harm all public colleges and universities in Texas. Now that this bill has moved to the House, it is important for alumni to let their state representatives know that this bill should not move forward. Here are some points to use when communicating with legislators on this important issue: It is inappropriate to seize land from a public university without compensation. Passage of SB 822 would take away a valuable resource that generates funds to help keep tuition affordable to students, and provide support that fuels the Texas economy. SB 822 strips a charitable gift from an institution that relies increasingly on philanthropy to operate. SB 822 has the potential to erode the confidence of donors who want to know that their intention when giving to UT-Austin will be fulfilled in perpetuity. Background The Brackenridge Tract was donated by Colonel Brackenridge to the University of Texas in 1910. The Brackenridge gift is a charitable trust created specifically to advance and promote education at UT-Austin. UT owns the land as trustee, subject to the charitable nature of the trust, and may only use or dispose of the land in furtherance of the charitable purpose. Since 1926, the university has leased part of that land for a public golf course. The course was among the first in the American South to become fully integrated in the 1950s and, last year, was added on the National Register of Historic Places for that important role in civil rights history. The City of Austin currently pays well-below market value for the land and that lease expires in 2019. UT and city officials are currently in negotiations, exploring several options, including a lease renewal at a fair price or possible land swaps. SB 822 would, instead, transfer the golf course property to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and require that agency to maintain it as a golf course in perpetuity. It would not compensate UT for that seizure. It would also derail the city and university’s ongoing efforts to reach a mutually-beneficial agreement through the negotiations.

Update on Senate Bill 822

Senate Bill 822 (Estes) recently passed the full Senate and was sent to the House for referral to a committee. This bill would transfer property gifted to UT-Austin to benefit students to another state agency without compensation. This proposal would also deny UT-Austin the opportunity to generate income from the land to help students, all while the state drastically reduces financial support for the university.  We understand the fate of the Lions Municipal Golf Course is an important issue for some Longhorns. No matter how you feel about Lions Municipal Golf Course, it is critical for the community to understand that the proposal within SB 822 is the wrong way to handle the situation. This is a bad bill that will hurt UT-Austin and set a precedent that could harm all public colleges and universities in Texas. Now that this bill has moved to the House, it is important for alumni to let their state representatives know that this bill should not move forward. Here are some points to use when communicating with legislators on this important issue: It is inappropriate to seize land from a public university without compensation. Passage of SB 822 would take away a valuable resource that generates funds to help keep tuition affordable to students, and provide support that fuels the Texas economy. SB 822 strips a charitable gift from an institution that relies increasingly on philanthropy to operate. SB 822 has the potential to erode the confidence of donors who want to know that their intention when giving to UT-Austin will be fulfilled in perpetuity. Background The Brackenridge Tract was donated by Colonel Brackenridge to the University of Texas in 1910. The Brackenridge gift is a charitable trust created specifically to advance and promote education at UT-Austin. UT owns the land as trustee, subject to the charitable nature of the trust, and may only use or dispose of the land in furtherance of the charitable purpose. Since 1926, the university has leased part of that land for a public golf course. The course was among the first in the American South to become fully integrated in the 1950s and, last year, was added on the National Register of Historic Places for that important role in civil rights history. The City of Austin currently pays well-below market value for the land and that lease expires in 2019. UT and city officials are currently in negotiations, exploring several options, including a lease renewal at a fair price or possible land swaps. SB 822 would, instead, transfer the golf course property to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and require that agency to maintain it as a golf course in perpetuity. It would not compensate UT for that seizure. It would also derail the city and university’s ongoing efforts to reach a mutually-beneficial agreement through the negotiations.

Update on Senate Bill 822

Senate Bill 822 (Estes) recently passed the full Senate and was sent to the House for referral to a committee. This bill would transfer property gifted to UT-Austin to benefit students to another state agency without compensation. This proposal would also deny UT-Austin the opportunity to generate income from the land to help students, all while the state drastically reduces financial support for the university.  We understand the fate of the Lions Municipal Golf Course is an important issue for some Longhorns. No matter how you feel about Lions Municipal Golf Course, it is critical for the community to understand that the proposal within SB 822 is the wrong way to handle the situation. This is a bad bill that will hurt UT-Austin and set a precedent that could harm all public colleges and universities in Texas. Now that this bill has moved to the House, it is important for alumni to let their state representatives know that this bill should not move forward. Here are some points to use when communicating with legislators on this important issue: It is inappropriate to seize land from a public university without compensation. Passage of SB 822 would take away a valuable resource that generates funds to help keep tuition affordable to students, and provide support that fuels the Texas economy. SB 822 strips a charitable gift from an institution that relies increasingly on philanthropy to operate. SB 822 has the potential to erode the confidence of donors who want to know that their intention when giving to UT-Austin will be fulfilled in perpetuity. Background The Brackenridge Tract was donated by Colonel Brackenridge to the University of Texas in 1910. The Brackenridge gift is a charitable trust created specifically to advance and promote education at UT-Austin. UT owns the land as trustee, subject to the charitable nature of the trust, and may only use or dispose of the land in furtherance of the charitable purpose. Since 1926, the university has leased part of that land for a public golf course. The course was among the first in the American South to become fully integrated in the 1950s and, last year, was added on the National Register of Historic Places for that important role in civil rights history. The City of Austin currently pays well-below market value for the land and that lease expires in 2019. UT and city officials are currently in negotiations, exploring several options, including a lease renewal at a fair price or possible land swaps. SB 822 would, instead, transfer the golf course property to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and require that agency to maintain it as a golf course in perpetuity. It would not compensate UT for that seizure. It would also derail the city and university’s ongoing efforts to reach a mutually-beneficial agreement through the negotiations.

Important Information on the Budget of UT-Austin

Alumni and friends of the University of Texas, our university could face harder times as the Legislature considers the budget for the next two years. UT-Austin is poised to take another cut based on the currently proposed Senate budget. This proposal will hurt the university’s ability to educate students, deliver cutting-edge research, and innovate for the people and businesses of our great state. The Senate's proposal significantly alters the funding methods for important research and public service programs like the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, and the Marine Science Institute, which are critical to the mission of the university. This new funding model reduces core state appropriations for UT-Austin by 10 percent, or $48 million, and could have long-term consequences for higher education in Texas. Additionally, the Senate proposal leaves the new Dell Medical School entirely unsupported, with zero funding in the proposed state budget. No other public medical school is treated this way. All the above amounts to a continued systematic divestment in public higher education. Universities like our flagship are struggling to educate the future workforce of Texas—future teachers, doctors, architects, engineers, programmers, and more. For more than 130 years, the University of Texas at Austin has been a major contributor to the state’s economy. In fact, it is among the best investments the government can make: UT alumni generated $8.8 billion, or the equivalent of more than 133,000 new jobs, in 2013 alone. The university attracts more than $700 million in research funding, generates $400 million through its entrepreneurship programs, and educates students who go on to add more than $6 billion annually to the state’s economy. It is vital that you stay informed on the budget as it makes its way through the legislative process. The next few weeks are critical. We ask that you share this update in your area and let other alumni and friends know that we all need to stand up for the university as these conversations are taking place at the Capitol. To see the impact of UT-Austin in your community, check out our district one-pagers here. 

Important Information on the Budget of UT-Austin

Alumni and friends of the University of Texas, our university could face harder times as the Legislature considers the budget for the next two years. UT-Austin is poised to take another cut based on the currently proposed Senate budget. This proposal will hurt the university’s ability to educate students, deliver cutting-edge research, and innovate for the people and businesses of our great state. The Senate's proposal significantly alters the funding methods for important research and public service programs like the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, and the Marine Science Institute, which are critical to the mission of the university. This new funding model reduces core state appropriations for UT-Austin by 10 percent, or $48 million, and could have long-term consequences for higher education in Texas. Additionally, the Senate proposal leaves the new Dell Medical School entirely unsupported, with zero funding in the proposed state budget. No other public medical school is treated this way. All the above amounts to a continued systematic divestment in public higher education. Universities like our flagship are struggling to educate the future workforce of Texas—future teachers, doctors, architects, engineers, programmers, and more. For more than 130 years, the University of Texas at Austin has been a major contributor to the state’s economy. In fact, it is among the best investments the government can make: UT alumni generated $8.8 billion, or the equivalent of more than 133,000 new jobs, in 2013 alone. The university attracts more than $700 million in research funding, generates $400 million through its entrepreneurship programs, and educates students who go on to add more than $6 billion annually to the state’s economy. It is vital that you stay informed on the budget as it makes its way through the legislative process. The next few weeks are critical. We ask that you share this update in your area and let other alumni and friends know that we all need to stand up for the university as these conversations are taking place at the Capitol. To see the impact of UT-Austin in your community, check out our district one-pagers here. 

Important Information on the Budget of UT-Austin

Alumni and friends of the University of Texas, our university could face harder times as the Legislature considers the budget for the next two years. UT-Austin is poised to take another cut based on the currently proposed Senate budget. This proposal will hurt the university’s ability to educate students, deliver cutting-edge research, and innovate for the people and businesses of our great state. The Senate's proposal significantly alters the funding methods for important research and public service programs like the McDonald Observatory, the Bureau of Economic Geology, and the Marine Science Institute, which are critical to the mission of the university. This new funding model reduces core state appropriations for UT-Austin by 10 percent, or $48 million, and could have long-term consequences for higher education in Texas. Additionally, the Senate proposal leaves the new Dell Medical School entirely unsupported, with zero funding in the proposed state budget. No other public medical school is treated this way. All the above amounts to a continued systematic divestment in public higher education. Universities like our flagship are struggling to educate the future workforce of Texas—future teachers, doctors, architects, engineers, programmers, and more. For more than 130 years, the University of Texas at Austin has been a major contributor to the state’s economy. In fact, it is among the best investments the government can make: UT alumni generated $8.8 billion, or the equivalent of more than 133,000 new jobs, in 2013 alone. The university attracts more than $700 million in research funding, generates $400 million through its entrepreneurship programs, and educates students who go on to add more than $6 billion annually to the state’s economy. It is vital that you stay informed on the budget as it makes its way through the legislative process. The next few weeks are critical. We ask that you share this update in your area and let other alumni and friends know that we all need to stand up for the university as these conversations are taking place at the Capitol. To see the impact of UT-Austin in your community, check out our district one-pagers here. 

Chancellor McRaven's Vision for the University of Texas System

The Board of Regents met for their November meeting to address a variety of system-wide issues. Chancellor William McRaven kicked started the agenda on Thursday with a presentation on his strategic vision for the University of Texas System. McRaven’s address broke down into eight “quantum leaps” for the University of Texas: 1. THE TEXAS PROSPECT INITIATIVE The UT System will be at the front of strengthening the college pipeline and more deeply engaging higher education with pre-K-12 in unprecedented ways. There will be four areas of focus: Ensuring college preparatory programs meet the standards to ensure students can enter higher education Creating the UT Literacy Institute, modeled after the UTeach program, to dramatically improve elementary level literacy at the largest, urban, ISDs Providing high school counselors in Texas with sufficient resources to give advice and direction to prospective college students Spotlighting the existing UT System schools of education to produce the best teachers in the nation 2. THE AMERICAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM UT System will implement a core curriculum of leadership on every campus to build students of character and integrity to lead our state, our nation, and our world. Every campus within the network will implement a one-hour upper and lower division course that will be required for all students focused on lessons learned from industry, public service, academia, civil rights and the military. In the long term, plans will develop for a brick and mortar leadership institute that provides executive level leadership training to senior administrators and working professionals who seek to improve the skills needed to run organizations today. 3. WIN THE TALENT WAR Chancellor McRaven vowed to helm an unparalleled investment in the pursuit of outstanding faculty to ensure campuses have world class scholars educating our future leaders. There will be intentionality behind recruiting and retaining faculty not only with established reputations in the National Academies, but rising faculty and post-doctoral candidates that illustrate promise as emerging leaders in their field. This will be carried out with an increase in STAR (Science and Technology Acquisition and Retention) investments and the installation of a rising stars program that hires clusters of great candidates.    4. THE DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY AND FAIRNESS UT System will safeguard fairness in hiring practices by ensuring that qualified women and minorities will be considered for senior administrator positions. This will include two programmatic changes:        1. Much like the Rooney Rule used by NFL in hiring head coaches, UT System policy will be written such that  no senior position, from Dean and above, can be filled without allowing a qualified woman or minority candidate to be interviewed all the way to the last round of the process.        2. All institutions will submit plans to the chancellor to close the gender gap in five years, even though the gender pay gap is much smaller than the national average at UT. 5. THE UT HEALTH CARE ENTERPRISE The University of Texas System will develop a collaborate Health Care Enterprise that leverages our size and expertise while connecting regional capabilities to deliver Texas, the country and the world the finest health care possible. Our internationally renowned health care institutions will collaborate across functions including shared clinical information, service lines, clinical trials and telehealth. The UT System will incentivize partnerships to pool the remarkable expertise that currently exists across the network. 6. A REVOLUTION IN BRAIN HEALTH McRaven likened a new UT System effort to understand, prevent, treat and cure diseases of the brain to the Manhattan Project. The senior population of Texas is the fastest growing and UT System hopes to address the urgency of diseases like Alzheimer’s with innovation in neurosciences. UT institutions across the state will contribute toward scientific and clinical cooperation in addressing brain health driven by partnerships which harnesses the power of the brightest minds already researching this area. 7. THE UT NETWORK FOR NATIONAL SECURITY UT System will establish a system-wide alliance of national security experts from more than 40 existing centers and institutes to elevate Texas as a national authority on issues of critical importance facing the world today. UT will establish the UT Network for National Security to address the most pressing issues of modern security including cyber, biological, geopolitical and other threats. 8. EXPAND THE SCALE OF OUR STRENGTH IN HOUSTON UT will broader its footprint in Houston to capitalize on its size, strength of institutions, and talent of the professionals in science, business, health care and the arts. This will not be a University of Texas at Houston, but an “intellectual hub” for UT where all campuses in the System can take advantage of the value Houston offers in fields such as medicine, energy, engineering, business, aerospace, health care and the arts. The System is completing the acquisition of over 300 acres of real estate off Buffalo Point just 3.5 miles from the Texas Medical Center.

Chancellor McRaven's Vision for the University of Texas System

The Board of Regents met for their November meeting to address a variety of system-wide issues. Chancellor William McRaven kicked started the agenda on Thursday with a presentation on his strategic vision for the University of Texas System. McRaven’s address broke down into eight “quantum leaps” for the University of Texas: 1. THE TEXAS PROSPECT INITIATIVE The UT System will be at the front of strengthening the college pipeline and more deeply engaging higher education with pre-K-12 in unprecedented ways. There will be four areas of focus: Ensuring college preparatory programs meet the standards to ensure students can enter higher education Creating the UT Literacy Institute, modeled after the UTeach program, to dramatically improve elementary level literacy at the largest, urban, ISDs Providing high school counselors in Texas with sufficient resources to give advice and direction to prospective college students Spotlighting the existing UT System schools of education to produce the best teachers in the nation 2. THE AMERICAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM UT System will implement a core curriculum of leadership on every campus to build students of character and integrity to lead our state, our nation, and our world. Every campus within the network will implement a one-hour upper and lower division course that will be required for all students focused on lessons learned from industry, public service, academia, civil rights and the military. In the long term, plans will develop for a brick and mortar leadership institute that provides executive level leadership training to senior administrators and working professionals who seek to improve the skills needed to run organizations today. 3. WIN THE TALENT WAR Chancellor McRaven vowed to helm an unparalleled investment in the pursuit of outstanding faculty to ensure campuses have world class scholars educating our future leaders. There will be intentionality behind recruiting and retaining faculty not only with established reputations in the National Academies, but rising faculty and post-doctoral candidates that illustrate promise as emerging leaders in their field. This will be carried out with an increase in STAR (Science and Technology Acquisition and Retention) investments and the installation of a rising stars program that hires clusters of great candidates.    4. THE DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY AND FAIRNESS UT System will safeguard fairness in hiring practices by ensuring that qualified women and minorities will be considered for senior administrator positions. This will include two programmatic changes:        1. Much like the Rooney Rule used by NFL in hiring head coaches, UT System policy will be written such that  no senior position, from Dean and above, can be filled without allowing a qualified woman or minority candidate to be interviewed all the way to the last round of the process.        2. All institutions will submit plans to the chancellor to close the gender gap in five years, even though the gender pay gap is much smaller than the national average at UT. 5. THE UT HEALTH CARE ENTERPRISE The University of Texas System will develop a collaborate Health Care Enterprise that leverages our size and expertise while connecting regional capabilities to deliver Texas, the country and the world the finest health care possible. Our internationally renowned health care institutions will collaborate across functions including shared clinical information, service lines, clinical trials and telehealth. The UT System will incentivize partnerships to pool the remarkable expertise that currently exists across the network. 6. A REVOLUTION IN BRAIN HEALTH McRaven likened a new UT System effort to understand, prevent, treat and cure diseases of the brain to the Manhattan Project. The senior population of Texas is the fastest growing and UT System hopes to address the urgency of diseases like Alzheimer’s with innovation in neurosciences. UT institutions across the state will contribute toward scientific and clinical cooperation in addressing brain health driven by partnerships which harnesses the power of the brightest minds already researching this area. 7. THE UT NETWORK FOR NATIONAL SECURITY UT System will establish a system-wide alliance of national security experts from more than 40 existing centers and institutes to elevate Texas as a national authority on issues of critical importance facing the world today. UT will establish the UT Network for National Security to address the most pressing issues of modern security including cyber, biological, geopolitical and other threats. 8. EXPAND THE SCALE OF OUR STRENGTH IN HOUSTON UT will broader its footprint in Houston to capitalize on its size, strength of institutions, and talent of the professionals in science, business, health care and the arts. This will not be a University of Texas at Houston, but an “intellectual hub” for UT where all campuses in the System can take advantage of the value Houston offers in fields such as medicine, energy, engineering, business, aerospace, health care and the arts. The System is completing the acquisition of over 300 acres of real estate off Buffalo Point just 3.5 miles from the Texas Medical Center.

Chancellor McRaven's Vision for the University of Texas System

The Board of Regents met for their November meeting to address a variety of system-wide issues. Chancellor William McRaven kicked started the agenda on Thursday with a presentation on his strategic vision for the University of Texas System. McRaven’s address broke down into eight “quantum leaps” for the University of Texas: 1. THE TEXAS PROSPECT INITIATIVE The UT System will be at the front of strengthening the college pipeline and more deeply engaging higher education with pre-K-12 in unprecedented ways. There will be four areas of focus: Ensuring college preparatory programs meet the standards to ensure students can enter higher education Creating the UT Literacy Institute, modeled after the UTeach program, to dramatically improve elementary level literacy at the largest, urban, ISDs Providing high school counselors in Texas with sufficient resources to give advice and direction to prospective college students Spotlighting the existing UT System schools of education to produce the best teachers in the nation 2. THE AMERICAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM UT System will implement a core curriculum of leadership on every campus to build students of character and integrity to lead our state, our nation, and our world. Every campus within the network will implement a one-hour upper and lower division course that will be required for all students focused on lessons learned from industry, public service, academia, civil rights and the military. In the long term, plans will develop for a brick and mortar leadership institute that provides executive level leadership training to senior administrators and working professionals who seek to improve the skills needed to run organizations today. 3. WIN THE TALENT WAR Chancellor McRaven vowed to helm an unparalleled investment in the pursuit of outstanding faculty to ensure campuses have world class scholars educating our future leaders. There will be intentionality behind recruiting and retaining faculty not only with established reputations in the National Academies, but rising faculty and post-doctoral candidates that illustrate promise as emerging leaders in their field. This will be carried out with an increase in STAR (Science and Technology Acquisition and Retention) investments and the installation of a rising stars program that hires clusters of great candidates.    4. THE DRIVE FOR DIVERSITY AND FAIRNESS UT System will safeguard fairness in hiring practices by ensuring that qualified women and minorities will be considered for senior administrator positions. This will include two programmatic changes:        1. Much like the Rooney Rule used by NFL in hiring head coaches, UT System policy will be written such that  no senior position, from Dean and above, can be filled without allowing a qualified woman or minority candidate to be interviewed all the way to the last round of the process.        2. All institutions will submit plans to the chancellor to close the gender gap in five years, even though the gender pay gap is much smaller than the national average at UT. 5. THE UT HEALTH CARE ENTERPRISE The University of Texas System will develop a collaborate Health Care Enterprise that leverages our size and expertise while connecting regional capabilities to deliver Texas, the country and the world the finest health care possible. Our internationally renowned health care institutions will collaborate across functions including shared clinical information, service lines, clinical trials and telehealth. The UT System will incentivize partnerships to pool the remarkable expertise that currently exists across the network. 6. A REVOLUTION IN BRAIN HEALTH McRaven likened a new UT System effort to understand, prevent, treat and cure diseases of the brain to the Manhattan Project. The senior population of Texas is the fastest growing and UT System hopes to address the urgency of diseases like Alzheimer’s with innovation in neurosciences. UT institutions across the state will contribute toward scientific and clinical cooperation in addressing brain health driven by partnerships which harnesses the power of the brightest minds already researching this area. 7. THE UT NETWORK FOR NATIONAL SECURITY UT System will establish a system-wide alliance of national security experts from more than 40 existing centers and institutes to elevate Texas as a national authority on issues of critical importance facing the world today. UT will establish the UT Network for National Security to address the most pressing issues of modern security including cyber, biological, geopolitical and other threats. 8. EXPAND THE SCALE OF OUR STRENGTH IN HOUSTON UT will broader its footprint in Houston to capitalize on its size, strength of institutions, and talent of the professionals in science, business, health care and the arts. This will not be a University of Texas at Houston, but an “intellectual hub” for UT where all campuses in the System can take advantage of the value Houston offers in fields such as medicine, energy, engineering, business, aerospace, health care and the arts. The System is completing the acquisition of over 300 acres of real estate off Buffalo Point just 3.5 miles from the Texas Medical Center.

Important Civic Dates to Note

The March primary season is already here. It is important for members, alumni, and UT Advocates to have their calendars updated with relevant dates. Please see below for the latest details on getting ready to vote.  Last day to register to vote for the March Primary: Monday, February 1, 2016 First day of early voting for the March Primary: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 (*you may vote at any polling location during early voting) Last day of early voting for the March Primary: Friday, February 26, 2016 Primary Election: Tuesday, March 1, 2016 (*on Election Day, you must vote in your designated precinct)   General Presidential Election: Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Important 2016 Election Dates and information on voting can be found through the Texas Secretary of State: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/ http://www.votetexas.gov/  http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/2016-important-election-dates.shtml    Visit the Briefing Room | Advocacy Home Page

Important Civic Dates to Note

The March primary season is already here. It is important for members, alumni, and UT Advocates to have their calendars updated with relevant dates. Please see below for the latest details on getting ready to vote.  Last day to register to vote for the March Primary: Monday, February 1, 2016 First day of early voting for the March Primary: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 (*you may vote at any polling location during early voting) Last day of early voting for the March Primary: Friday, February 26, 2016 Primary Election: Tuesday, March 1, 2016 (*on Election Day, you must vote in your designated precinct)   General Presidential Election: Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Important 2016 Election Dates and information on voting can be found through the Texas Secretary of State: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/ http://www.votetexas.gov/  http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/2016-important-election-dates.shtml    Visit the Briefing Room | Advocacy Home Page

Important Civic Dates to Note

The March primary season is already here. It is important for members, alumni, and UT Advocates to have their calendars updated with relevant dates. Please see below for the latest details on getting ready to vote.  Last day to register to vote for the March Primary: Monday, February 1, 2016 First day of early voting for the March Primary: Tuesday, February 16, 2016 (*you may vote at any polling location during early voting) Last day of early voting for the March Primary: Friday, February 26, 2016 Primary Election: Tuesday, March 1, 2016 (*on Election Day, you must vote in your designated precinct)   General Presidential Election: Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Important 2016 Election Dates and information on voting can be found through the Texas Secretary of State: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/ http://www.votetexas.gov/  http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/2016-important-election-dates.shtml    Visit the Briefing Room | Advocacy Home Page

Updates from the 84th Legislative Session

Base Funding Chairman Zerwas introduced HB 1000, which relates to state support for general academic teaching institutions.  It was voted favorably from the House Higher Education Committee last Wednesday. Chairman Seliger’s SB 778 relates to performance-based tuition limitations, and on Thursday, five floor amendments were adopted, and the bill passed the Senate 29-2.  It has been received in the House. This bill effectively regulates tuition based on increases in inflation.  Capital Investment As of April 29, Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100, including $80 million in capital investments for Welch Hall, received a hearing and was left pending in the Senate Higher Education Committee after passing the House last month, 131-13. It is expected that this legislation will move through the Senate quickly once the budget taken care of. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation Higher Education in the House heard HJR 115 and HB 2755  last Wednesday, both of which relate to the University of Houston accessing the Permanent University Fund (PUF), which has previously funded only the University of Texas and Texas A&M Systems.  The committee left the bills pending and they are not currently thought to have enough support to move through the process. HB 26 by Representative Button abolishes the Emerging Technology Fund, and passed the third reading on Thursday.  The similar HB 27 (also by Representative Button) was scheduled for a second reading on May 1, which was postponed to this Thursday, May 7. Representative Giddings’ HB 700 repeals the B-On-time loan program, and was received in the Senate on Monday, after passing the House 122-19 the week before. The establishment of the governor’s university fund, as laid out in SB 632 by Senator Fraser, was received in the House on Thursday, after passing the Senate 30-1 on Wednesday. Governance SB 1735 by Senator Birdwell establishes residency restrictions for veterans’ benefits, and was placed on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, May 4.  In the House, the identical HB 3572 by Chairman Zerwas was voted favorably from the Committee on May 1. Senator Perry’s SB 907 clarifies the powers and duties of the regents of the University of Texas System.  It has been referred to the House Committee on Higher Education, after passing the Senate at the end of March, 30-0. Top Ten Percent Chairman Zerwas’ HB 2472 allows the 75% cap on Top Ten admissions at UT Austin to continue.  After passing the House local calendar 139-0 a few weeks ago, it was received in the Senate on Monday and now seeks to be heard in that chamber in order to move forward. Campus Safety Representative Nevarez’s campus sexual assault bill, HB 699, passed the House 102-40 on Tuesday, and was received in the Senate on Thursday. SB 33, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, relating to hazing, was received in the House on Thursday after passing the Senate 31-0. There is still much discussion about campus carry legislation, but it appears to be slowed up in the House currently. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 9:00 A.M., E1.012 HB 495 – Relating to the use of money from the permanent fund for health-related programs to provide grants to nursing education programs (introduced by Representative Donna Howard) House: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 SB 685 – Relating to the applicability of open meetings and public information laws to the education research center advisory board (introduced by Chairman Kel Seliger) SB 915 – Relating to the textbook affordability pilot program and to certain studies and reports by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding achievable cost-saving measures (introduces by Senator Lois Kolkhorst) On the Calendar Senate: May 4, 2015 SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: May 6, 2015 HB 1256 – Relating to student members of the board of regents of a state university or state university system (introduced by Representative J.D. Sheffield) April 20, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: On Wednesday, HJR 115 by Representative Turner will be heard in the House Higher Education Committee.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment allowing the University of Houston to participate in the permanent university fund.  If you are in or around the Capitol on that day, please register your opposition to this resolution. In regards to the budget, the conference committee will begin meeting soon.  The details of those meetings should be determined this week. Base Funding: Now that both the House and Senate budgets have passed, HB 1000 by Chairman Zerwas is likely to move.  Currently, it is pending in the House Higher Education Committee. This bill would restructure state support for institutions of higher education in the state. Representative Giddings’ repeal of the B-On-time loan (HB 700) passed the House 130-10 on Thursday.  Additionally, SB 778 by Senator Seliger relating to performance-based tuition limitations is on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, April 27.  Senator Birdwell’s SB 1735, imposing stricter residency requirements for veterans with tuition exemptions, was passed favorably from the Senate Higher Education Committee on Wednesday. Capital Investment: Chairman Zerwas’ capital investment bill (HB 100) was referred to the Senate Committee on Higher Education on Thursday. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation: HB 27 by Representative Button establishing the governor’s university research imitative, among other research policies, is on the House Calendar for Thursday, April 30. Representative Elkins’ HB 590 allows for the creation of research technology corporations for the development and commercialization of technologies owned by those institutions.  HB 590 is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Governance: Representative Otto’s HB 15 relating to the management of state contracts is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. HB 61 by Representative McClendon would establish a common course numbering system for public higher education institutions, and was voted favorably from the committee on Wednesday. HB 298 establishes guidelines for the transfer of credits for the purposes of timely graduation and was reported from the House Higher Education Committee as substituted on Wednesday. Senator Zaffirini’s SB 1714 relates to the release of student academic information, and passed the Senate 30-0. Top Ten Percent: HB 2472 by Representative Zerwas passed to the Local Calendar in the House 139-0 on Thursday.  This bill allows UT Austin to keep its 75% cap on Top 10% admissions. Campus Safety: Representative Nevarez’s bill requiring public institutions of higher education to adopt more comprehensive policies regarding sexual assault (HB 699) is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Upcoming Committee Meetings House: Higher Education Wednesday, 4/29/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 1502 – Relating to the elimination of certain formula funding and dropped course restrictions for students enrolled in accelerated, affordable baccalaureate programs at public (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2755 – Relating to the higher education fund, the management of investments of the permanent university fund, and the allocation and distribution of certain constitutional revenues to the University of Houston (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) HJR 115 – Proposing a constitutional amendment to entitle the University of Houston to participate in the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) SB 308 – Relating to the application of public information laws to campus police departments at private institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative John Whitmire) On the Calendar Senate: April 27, 2015 SB 239 – Relating to student loan repayment assistance for certain mental health professionals (introduced by Representative Charles Schwertner) SB 778 – Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Kel Seliger) SB 1205 – Relating to the environmental services fee at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Representative Royce West) House: April 27, 2015 HB 7 – Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts (introduced my Representative Drew Darby) HB 15 – Relating to the management and oversight of state contracts, including contracts for information technology commodity items (introduced by Representative John Otto) HB 590 – Relating to the creation of research technology corporations by institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Gary Elkins) HB 699 – Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to establish a policy on campus sexual assault (introduced by Representative Poncho Nevarez) April 30, 2015 HB 26 – Relating to state economic development measures, including administration of the Texas Enterprise Fund, creation of the Economic Incentive Oversight Board, abolishment of the Texas emerging technology fund (introduced by Representative Angie Button) April 13, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: Monday morning, the Board of Regents confirmed Provost Gregory L. Fenves as the new President for UT Austin with an 8-0 vote.  Texas Exes congratulates Provost Fenves and looks forward to working with him as he assumes his new role on June 3. Base Funding The House passed HB 1, the general appropriations bill, which increases the base funding for UT Austin for 2016 and 2017 by approximately 3%. The Senate passed their version of the budget this past Tuesday, 30-1. The conference committee members are being selected and will begin meeting very soon to iron out the details of the final state budget. Capital Investment Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100 has passed the House.  It’s expected that the Senate will consider capital investment legislation very soon (possibly this week). Governance SB 1819 by Senator Campbell was heard in the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security last week, and the committee members heard testimony for nine hours. The bill would end in-state tuition for undocumented students, requiring them to pay out-of-state tuition rates. Many UT Austin students, including Student Government President-Elect Xavier Rotonofsky, testified against the bill.  You can find his testimony here beginning at 14:00:17.  The bill was sent to the full Senate for consideration. HB 3572 would impose stricter residency requirements on military personnel and their dependents seeking tuition exemptions. This bill by Representative Zerwas is currently pending in the House Higher Education Committee. Senator Seliger’s SB 778 includes barring tuition increases beyond inflation as well as tying funding to performance.  SB 778 is on the Senate intent calendar for Monday, April 20. Top Ten Percent Representative Zerwas’ HB 2472 would abolish the sunset provision on UT Austin’s 75% cap on Top Ten percent admissions, allowing the University to continue that policy.  This bill was recommended for the Local and Consent calendar last week. Campus Safety HB 937 (campus carry) has still not been placed on the Intent Calendar.  An amendment to the open carry bill (HB 910) by Representative Fletcher allowing guns on campuses was pulled down during floor debate on Friday. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Finance Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.036 SB 157 – Relating to exempting books purchased, used, or consumed by certain university and college students from the sales and use tax for limited periods (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.012 SB 1438 – Relating to funding sources for the repayment of certain speech-language pathologist and audiologist education loans (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 1624 – Relating to a requirement that entering undergraduate students at a public institution of higher education attend an orientation regarding mental health and suicide prevention services (introduced by Senator Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Senator Royce West) SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: Defense and Veteran’s Affairs Wednesday, 4/22/15 8am, E2.026 HB 840 – Relating to the establishment of veterans resource centers at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Roberto Alonzo) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 119 – Relating to tuition assistance for members of the Texas State Guard (introduced by Representative Dan Flynn) HB 926 – Relating to a study and report regarding the use of open-source instructional materials at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Terry Canales) HB 1612 – Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information to students and school districts regarding student performance on Texas Success Initiative (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1613 – Relating to the use of performance on certain assessment instruments designated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to satisfy requirements concerning high school end-of-course assessment (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1807 – Relating to requiring the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to maintain an inventory of postsecondary educational programs and services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 2365 – Relating to the requirements for employment positions provided through the Texas college work-study program (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2790 – Relating to measures to ensure certain adopted students are informed regarding their eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Richard Raymond) HB 3384 – Relating to the automatic admission of certain transfer students to general academic teaching institutions (introduced by Representative Eric Johnson) HB 3670 – Relating to an environmental service fee charged by an institution of higher education (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 3748 – Relating to the coordination of educational support services for and information regarding students who are currently or were formerly placed in foster care (introduced by Representative Marsha Farney) HB 3844 – Relating to the administration of the scholarship program for certain students graduating in the top 10 percent of the students’ high school graduating class (introduced by Representative Chris Turner) HB 4046 – Relating to confidentiality of student records (introduced by Representative Carol Alvarado) HB 3467 – Relating to a postsecondary distance learning feasibility study conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (introduced by Representative Armando Martinez) Government Transparency and Operation Wednesday, 4/22/15 2:00pm, E1.014 HB 3248 – Relating to state agency procedures and policies to protect and properly destroy certain information that identifies an individual (introduced by Representative Yvonne Davis) Bills on the Calendar Senate: Monday SB 24 – Relating to training for members of the governing board of a public institution of higher education (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 778 –Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Senator Kel Seliger) SB 1714 – Relating to the release of student academic information by a public institution of higher education for certain purposes and the manner in which the information is used (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) House: Wednesday HB 700 – Relating to the repeal of the Texas B-On-time student loan program (introduced by Representative Helen Giddings)

Updates from the 84th Legislative Session

Base Funding Chairman Zerwas introduced HB 1000, which relates to state support for general academic teaching institutions.  It was voted favorably from the House Higher Education Committee last Wednesday. Chairman Seliger’s SB 778 relates to performance-based tuition limitations, and on Thursday, five floor amendments were adopted, and the bill passed the Senate 29-2.  It has been received in the House. This bill effectively regulates tuition based on increases in inflation.  Capital Investment As of April 29, Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100, including $80 million in capital investments for Welch Hall, received a hearing and was left pending in the Senate Higher Education Committee after passing the House last month, 131-13. It is expected that this legislation will move through the Senate quickly once the budget taken care of. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation Higher Education in the House heard HJR 115 and HB 2755  last Wednesday, both of which relate to the University of Houston accessing the Permanent University Fund (PUF), which has previously funded only the University of Texas and Texas A&M Systems.  The committee left the bills pending and they are not currently thought to have enough support to move through the process. HB 26 by Representative Button abolishes the Emerging Technology Fund, and passed the third reading on Thursday.  The similar HB 27 (also by Representative Button) was scheduled for a second reading on May 1, which was postponed to this Thursday, May 7. Representative Giddings’ HB 700 repeals the B-On-time loan program, and was received in the Senate on Monday, after passing the House 122-19 the week before. The establishment of the governor’s university fund, as laid out in SB 632 by Senator Fraser, was received in the House on Thursday, after passing the Senate 30-1 on Wednesday. Governance SB 1735 by Senator Birdwell establishes residency restrictions for veterans’ benefits, and was placed on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, May 4.  In the House, the identical HB 3572 by Chairman Zerwas was voted favorably from the Committee on May 1. Senator Perry’s SB 907 clarifies the powers and duties of the regents of the University of Texas System.  It has been referred to the House Committee on Higher Education, after passing the Senate at the end of March, 30-0. Top Ten Percent Chairman Zerwas’ HB 2472 allows the 75% cap on Top Ten admissions at UT Austin to continue.  After passing the House local calendar 139-0 a few weeks ago, it was received in the Senate on Monday and now seeks to be heard in that chamber in order to move forward. Campus Safety Representative Nevarez’s campus sexual assault bill, HB 699, passed the House 102-40 on Tuesday, and was received in the Senate on Thursday. SB 33, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, relating to hazing, was received in the House on Thursday after passing the Senate 31-0. There is still much discussion about campus carry legislation, but it appears to be slowed up in the House currently. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 9:00 A.M., E1.012 HB 495 – Relating to the use of money from the permanent fund for health-related programs to provide grants to nursing education programs (introduced by Representative Donna Howard) House: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 SB 685 – Relating to the applicability of open meetings and public information laws to the education research center advisory board (introduced by Chairman Kel Seliger) SB 915 – Relating to the textbook affordability pilot program and to certain studies and reports by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding achievable cost-saving measures (introduces by Senator Lois Kolkhorst) On the Calendar Senate: May 4, 2015 SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: May 6, 2015 HB 1256 – Relating to student members of the board of regents of a state university or state university system (introduced by Representative J.D. Sheffield) April 20, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: On Wednesday, HJR 115 by Representative Turner will be heard in the House Higher Education Committee.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment allowing the University of Houston to participate in the permanent university fund.  If you are in or around the Capitol on that day, please register your opposition to this resolution. In regards to the budget, the conference committee will begin meeting soon.  The details of those meetings should be determined this week. Base Funding: Now that both the House and Senate budgets have passed, HB 1000 by Chairman Zerwas is likely to move.  Currently, it is pending in the House Higher Education Committee. This bill would restructure state support for institutions of higher education in the state. Representative Giddings’ repeal of the B-On-time loan (HB 700) passed the House 130-10 on Thursday.  Additionally, SB 778 by Senator Seliger relating to performance-based tuition limitations is on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, April 27.  Senator Birdwell’s SB 1735, imposing stricter residency requirements for veterans with tuition exemptions, was passed favorably from the Senate Higher Education Committee on Wednesday. Capital Investment: Chairman Zerwas’ capital investment bill (HB 100) was referred to the Senate Committee on Higher Education on Thursday. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation: HB 27 by Representative Button establishing the governor’s university research imitative, among other research policies, is on the House Calendar for Thursday, April 30. Representative Elkins’ HB 590 allows for the creation of research technology corporations for the development and commercialization of technologies owned by those institutions.  HB 590 is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Governance: Representative Otto’s HB 15 relating to the management of state contracts is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. HB 61 by Representative McClendon would establish a common course numbering system for public higher education institutions, and was voted favorably from the committee on Wednesday. HB 298 establishes guidelines for the transfer of credits for the purposes of timely graduation and was reported from the House Higher Education Committee as substituted on Wednesday. Senator Zaffirini’s SB 1714 relates to the release of student academic information, and passed the Senate 30-0. Top Ten Percent: HB 2472 by Representative Zerwas passed to the Local Calendar in the House 139-0 on Thursday.  This bill allows UT Austin to keep its 75% cap on Top 10% admissions. Campus Safety: Representative Nevarez’s bill requiring public institutions of higher education to adopt more comprehensive policies regarding sexual assault (HB 699) is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Upcoming Committee Meetings House: Higher Education Wednesday, 4/29/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 1502 – Relating to the elimination of certain formula funding and dropped course restrictions for students enrolled in accelerated, affordable baccalaureate programs at public (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2755 – Relating to the higher education fund, the management of investments of the permanent university fund, and the allocation and distribution of certain constitutional revenues to the University of Houston (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) HJR 115 – Proposing a constitutional amendment to entitle the University of Houston to participate in the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) SB 308 – Relating to the application of public information laws to campus police departments at private institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative John Whitmire) On the Calendar Senate: April 27, 2015 SB 239 – Relating to student loan repayment assistance for certain mental health professionals (introduced by Representative Charles Schwertner) SB 778 – Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Kel Seliger) SB 1205 – Relating to the environmental services fee at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Representative Royce West) House: April 27, 2015 HB 7 – Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts (introduced my Representative Drew Darby) HB 15 – Relating to the management and oversight of state contracts, including contracts for information technology commodity items (introduced by Representative John Otto) HB 590 – Relating to the creation of research technology corporations by institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Gary Elkins) HB 699 – Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to establish a policy on campus sexual assault (introduced by Representative Poncho Nevarez) April 30, 2015 HB 26 – Relating to state economic development measures, including administration of the Texas Enterprise Fund, creation of the Economic Incentive Oversight Board, abolishment of the Texas emerging technology fund (introduced by Representative Angie Button) April 13, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: Monday morning, the Board of Regents confirmed Provost Gregory L. Fenves as the new President for UT Austin with an 8-0 vote.  Texas Exes congratulates Provost Fenves and looks forward to working with him as he assumes his new role on June 3. Base Funding The House passed HB 1, the general appropriations bill, which increases the base funding for UT Austin for 2016 and 2017 by approximately 3%. The Senate passed their version of the budget this past Tuesday, 30-1. The conference committee members are being selected and will begin meeting very soon to iron out the details of the final state budget. Capital Investment Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100 has passed the House.  It’s expected that the Senate will consider capital investment legislation very soon (possibly this week). Governance SB 1819 by Senator Campbell was heard in the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security last week, and the committee members heard testimony for nine hours. The bill would end in-state tuition for undocumented students, requiring them to pay out-of-state tuition rates. Many UT Austin students, including Student Government President-Elect Xavier Rotonofsky, testified against the bill.  You can find his testimony here beginning at 14:00:17.  The bill was sent to the full Senate for consideration. HB 3572 would impose stricter residency requirements on military personnel and their dependents seeking tuition exemptions. This bill by Representative Zerwas is currently pending in the House Higher Education Committee. Senator Seliger’s SB 778 includes barring tuition increases beyond inflation as well as tying funding to performance.  SB 778 is on the Senate intent calendar for Monday, April 20. Top Ten Percent Representative Zerwas’ HB 2472 would abolish the sunset provision on UT Austin’s 75% cap on Top Ten percent admissions, allowing the University to continue that policy.  This bill was recommended for the Local and Consent calendar last week. Campus Safety HB 937 (campus carry) has still not been placed on the Intent Calendar.  An amendment to the open carry bill (HB 910) by Representative Fletcher allowing guns on campuses was pulled down during floor debate on Friday. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Finance Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.036 SB 157 – Relating to exempting books purchased, used, or consumed by certain university and college students from the sales and use tax for limited periods (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.012 SB 1438 – Relating to funding sources for the repayment of certain speech-language pathologist and audiologist education loans (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 1624 – Relating to a requirement that entering undergraduate students at a public institution of higher education attend an orientation regarding mental health and suicide prevention services (introduced by Senator Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Senator Royce West) SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: Defense and Veteran’s Affairs Wednesday, 4/22/15 8am, E2.026 HB 840 – Relating to the establishment of veterans resource centers at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Roberto Alonzo) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 119 – Relating to tuition assistance for members of the Texas State Guard (introduced by Representative Dan Flynn) HB 926 – Relating to a study and report regarding the use of open-source instructional materials at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Terry Canales) HB 1612 – Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information to students and school districts regarding student performance on Texas Success Initiative (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1613 – Relating to the use of performance on certain assessment instruments designated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to satisfy requirements concerning high school end-of-course assessment (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1807 – Relating to requiring the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to maintain an inventory of postsecondary educational programs and services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 2365 – Relating to the requirements for employment positions provided through the Texas college work-study program (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2790 – Relating to measures to ensure certain adopted students are informed regarding their eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Richard Raymond) HB 3384 – Relating to the automatic admission of certain transfer students to general academic teaching institutions (introduced by Representative Eric Johnson) HB 3670 – Relating to an environmental service fee charged by an institution of higher education (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 3748 – Relating to the coordination of educational support services for and information regarding students who are currently or were formerly placed in foster care (introduced by Representative Marsha Farney) HB 3844 – Relating to the administration of the scholarship program for certain students graduating in the top 10 percent of the students’ high school graduating class (introduced by Representative Chris Turner) HB 4046 – Relating to confidentiality of student records (introduced by Representative Carol Alvarado) HB 3467 – Relating to a postsecondary distance learning feasibility study conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (introduced by Representative Armando Martinez) Government Transparency and Operation Wednesday, 4/22/15 2:00pm, E1.014 HB 3248 – Relating to state agency procedures and policies to protect and properly destroy certain information that identifies an individual (introduced by Representative Yvonne Davis) Bills on the Calendar Senate: Monday SB 24 – Relating to training for members of the governing board of a public institution of higher education (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 778 –Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Senator Kel Seliger) SB 1714 – Relating to the release of student academic information by a public institution of higher education for certain purposes and the manner in which the information is used (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) House: Wednesday HB 700 – Relating to the repeal of the Texas B-On-time student loan program (introduced by Representative Helen Giddings)

Updates from the 84th Legislative Session

Base Funding Chairman Zerwas introduced HB 1000, which relates to state support for general academic teaching institutions.  It was voted favorably from the House Higher Education Committee last Wednesday. Chairman Seliger’s SB 778 relates to performance-based tuition limitations, and on Thursday, five floor amendments were adopted, and the bill passed the Senate 29-2.  It has been received in the House. This bill effectively regulates tuition based on increases in inflation.  Capital Investment As of April 29, Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100, including $80 million in capital investments for Welch Hall, received a hearing and was left pending in the Senate Higher Education Committee after passing the House last month, 131-13. It is expected that this legislation will move through the Senate quickly once the budget taken care of. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation Higher Education in the House heard HJR 115 and HB 2755  last Wednesday, both of which relate to the University of Houston accessing the Permanent University Fund (PUF), which has previously funded only the University of Texas and Texas A&M Systems.  The committee left the bills pending and they are not currently thought to have enough support to move through the process. HB 26 by Representative Button abolishes the Emerging Technology Fund, and passed the third reading on Thursday.  The similar HB 27 (also by Representative Button) was scheduled for a second reading on May 1, which was postponed to this Thursday, May 7. Representative Giddings’ HB 700 repeals the B-On-time loan program, and was received in the Senate on Monday, after passing the House 122-19 the week before. The establishment of the governor’s university fund, as laid out in SB 632 by Senator Fraser, was received in the House on Thursday, after passing the Senate 30-1 on Wednesday. Governance SB 1735 by Senator Birdwell establishes residency restrictions for veterans’ benefits, and was placed on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, May 4.  In the House, the identical HB 3572 by Chairman Zerwas was voted favorably from the Committee on May 1. Senator Perry’s SB 907 clarifies the powers and duties of the regents of the University of Texas System.  It has been referred to the House Committee on Higher Education, after passing the Senate at the end of March, 30-0. Top Ten Percent Chairman Zerwas’ HB 2472 allows the 75% cap on Top Ten admissions at UT Austin to continue.  After passing the House local calendar 139-0 a few weeks ago, it was received in the Senate on Monday and now seeks to be heard in that chamber in order to move forward. Campus Safety Representative Nevarez’s campus sexual assault bill, HB 699, passed the House 102-40 on Tuesday, and was received in the Senate on Thursday. SB 33, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, relating to hazing, was received in the House on Thursday after passing the Senate 31-0. There is still much discussion about campus carry legislation, but it appears to be slowed up in the House currently. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 9:00 A.M., E1.012 HB 495 – Relating to the use of money from the permanent fund for health-related programs to provide grants to nursing education programs (introduced by Representative Donna Howard) House: Higher Education Wednesday, 5/06/15 SB 685 – Relating to the applicability of open meetings and public information laws to the education research center advisory board (introduced by Chairman Kel Seliger) SB 915 – Relating to the textbook affordability pilot program and to certain studies and reports by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding achievable cost-saving measures (introduces by Senator Lois Kolkhorst) On the Calendar Senate: May 4, 2015 SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: May 6, 2015 HB 1256 – Relating to student members of the board of regents of a state university or state university system (introduced by Representative J.D. Sheffield) April 20, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: On Wednesday, HJR 115 by Representative Turner will be heard in the House Higher Education Committee.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment allowing the University of Houston to participate in the permanent university fund.  If you are in or around the Capitol on that day, please register your opposition to this resolution. In regards to the budget, the conference committee will begin meeting soon.  The details of those meetings should be determined this week. Base Funding: Now that both the House and Senate budgets have passed, HB 1000 by Chairman Zerwas is likely to move.  Currently, it is pending in the House Higher Education Committee. This bill would restructure state support for institutions of higher education in the state. Representative Giddings’ repeal of the B-On-time loan (HB 700) passed the House 130-10 on Thursday.  Additionally, SB 778 by Senator Seliger relating to performance-based tuition limitations is on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, April 27.  Senator Birdwell’s SB 1735, imposing stricter residency requirements for veterans with tuition exemptions, was passed favorably from the Senate Higher Education Committee on Wednesday. Capital Investment: Chairman Zerwas’ capital investment bill (HB 100) was referred to the Senate Committee on Higher Education on Thursday. Support for Tier-One Research and Innovation: HB 27 by Representative Button establishing the governor’s university research imitative, among other research policies, is on the House Calendar for Thursday, April 30. Representative Elkins’ HB 590 allows for the creation of research technology corporations for the development and commercialization of technologies owned by those institutions.  HB 590 is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Governance: Representative Otto’s HB 15 relating to the management of state contracts is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. HB 61 by Representative McClendon would establish a common course numbering system for public higher education institutions, and was voted favorably from the committee on Wednesday. HB 298 establishes guidelines for the transfer of credits for the purposes of timely graduation and was reported from the House Higher Education Committee as substituted on Wednesday. Senator Zaffirini’s SB 1714 relates to the release of student academic information, and passed the Senate 30-0. Top Ten Percent: HB 2472 by Representative Zerwas passed to the Local Calendar in the House 139-0 on Thursday.  This bill allows UT Austin to keep its 75% cap on Top 10% admissions. Campus Safety: Representative Nevarez’s bill requiring public institutions of higher education to adopt more comprehensive policies regarding sexual assault (HB 699) is on the House calendar for Monday, April 27. Upcoming Committee Meetings House: Higher Education Wednesday, 4/29/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 1502 – Relating to the elimination of certain formula funding and dropped course restrictions for students enrolled in accelerated, affordable baccalaureate programs at public (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2755 – Relating to the higher education fund, the management of investments of the permanent university fund, and the allocation and distribution of certain constitutional revenues to the University of Houston (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) HJR 115 – Proposing a constitutional amendment to entitle the University of Houston to participate in the income and other benefits of the permanent university fund (introduced by Representative Sylvester Turner) SB 308 – Relating to the application of public information laws to campus police departments at private institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative John Whitmire) On the Calendar Senate: April 27, 2015 SB 239 – Relating to student loan repayment assistance for certain mental health professionals (introduced by Representative Charles Schwertner) SB 778 – Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Kel Seliger) SB 1205 – Relating to the environmental services fee at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Representative Royce West) House: April 27, 2015 HB 7 – Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts (introduced my Representative Drew Darby) HB 15 – Relating to the management and oversight of state contracts, including contracts for information technology commodity items (introduced by Representative John Otto) HB 590 – Relating to the creation of research technology corporations by institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Gary Elkins) HB 699 – Relating to requiring public institutions of higher education to establish a policy on campus sexual assault (introduced by Representative Poncho Nevarez) April 30, 2015 HB 26 – Relating to state economic development measures, including administration of the Texas Enterprise Fund, creation of the Economic Incentive Oversight Board, abolishment of the Texas emerging technology fund (introduced by Representative Angie Button) April 13, 2015 Updates on our Legislative Priorities: Monday morning, the Board of Regents confirmed Provost Gregory L. Fenves as the new President for UT Austin with an 8-0 vote.  Texas Exes congratulates Provost Fenves and looks forward to working with him as he assumes his new role on June 3. Base Funding The House passed HB 1, the general appropriations bill, which increases the base funding for UT Austin for 2016 and 2017 by approximately 3%. The Senate passed their version of the budget this past Tuesday, 30-1. The conference committee members are being selected and will begin meeting very soon to iron out the details of the final state budget. Capital Investment Chairman Zerwas’ HB 100 has passed the House.  It’s expected that the Senate will consider capital investment legislation very soon (possibly this week). Governance SB 1819 by Senator Campbell was heard in the Senate Subcommittee on Border Security last week, and the committee members heard testimony for nine hours. The bill would end in-state tuition for undocumented students, requiring them to pay out-of-state tuition rates. Many UT Austin students, including Student Government President-Elect Xavier Rotonofsky, testified against the bill.  You can find his testimony here beginning at 14:00:17.  The bill was sent to the full Senate for consideration. HB 3572 would impose stricter residency requirements on military personnel and their dependents seeking tuition exemptions. This bill by Representative Zerwas is currently pending in the House Higher Education Committee. Senator Seliger’s SB 778 includes barring tuition increases beyond inflation as well as tying funding to performance.  SB 778 is on the Senate intent calendar for Monday, April 20. Top Ten Percent Representative Zerwas’ HB 2472 would abolish the sunset provision on UT Austin’s 75% cap on Top Ten percent admissions, allowing the University to continue that policy.  This bill was recommended for the Local and Consent calendar last week. Campus Safety HB 937 (campus carry) has still not been placed on the Intent Calendar.  An amendment to the open carry bill (HB 910) by Representative Fletcher allowing guns on campuses was pulled down during floor debate on Friday. Upcoming Committee Meetings Senate: Finance Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.036 SB 157 – Relating to exempting books purchased, used, or consumed by certain university and college students from the sales and use tax for limited periods (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 9:00am, E1.012 SB 1438 – Relating to funding sources for the repayment of certain speech-language pathologist and audiologist education loans (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 1624 – Relating to a requirement that entering undergraduate students at a public institution of higher education attend an orientation regarding mental health and suicide prevention services (introduced by Senator Jose Rodriguez) SB 1655 – Relating to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board fees for the administration of certificates of authorization and certificates of authority issued to certain postsecondary educational institutions (introduced by Senator Royce West) SB 1735 – Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel and their dependents (introduced by Senator Brian Birdwell) House: Defense and Veteran’s Affairs Wednesday, 4/22/15 8am, E2.026 HB 840 – Relating to the establishment of veterans resource centers at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Roberto Alonzo) Higher Education Wednesday, 4/22/15 8:00am, E2.014 HB 119 – Relating to tuition assistance for members of the Texas State Guard (introduced by Representative Dan Flynn) HB 926 – Relating to a study and report regarding the use of open-source instructional materials at public institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Terry Canales) HB 1612 – Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide certain information to students and school districts regarding student performance on Texas Success Initiative (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1613 – Relating to the use of performance on certain assessment instruments designated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to satisfy requirements concerning high school end-of-course assessment (introduced by Representative Ryan Guillen) HB 1807 – Relating to requiring the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to maintain an inventory of postsecondary educational programs and services for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 2365 – Relating to the requirements for employment positions provided through the Texas college work-study program (introduced by Representative Jim Murphy) HB 2790 – Relating to measures to ensure certain adopted students are informed regarding their eligibility for tuition and fee exemptions at certain institutions of higher education (introduced by Representative Richard Raymond) HB 3384 – Relating to the automatic admission of certain transfer students to general academic teaching institutions (introduced by Representative Eric Johnson) HB 3670 – Relating to an environmental service fee charged by an institution of higher education (introduced by Representative Elliot Naishtat) HB 3748 – Relating to the coordination of educational support services for and information regarding students who are currently or were formerly placed in foster care (introduced by Representative Marsha Farney) HB 3844 – Relating to the administration of the scholarship program for certain students graduating in the top 10 percent of the students’ high school graduating class (introduced by Representative Chris Turner) HB 4046 – Relating to confidentiality of student records (introduced by Representative Carol Alvarado) HB 3467 – Relating to a postsecondary distance learning feasibility study conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (introduced by Representative Armando Martinez) Government Transparency and Operation Wednesday, 4/22/15 2:00pm, E1.014 HB 3248 – Relating to state agency procedures and policies to protect and properly destroy certain information that identifies an individual (introduced by Representative Yvonne Davis) Bills on the Calendar Senate: Monday SB 24 – Relating to training for members of the governing board of a public institution of higher education (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) SB 778 –Relating to performance-based tuition limitations for certain public institutions of higher education (introduced by Senator Kel Seliger) SB 1714 – Relating to the release of student academic information by a public institution of higher education for certain purposes and the manner in which the information is used (introduced by Senator Judith Zaffirini) House: Wednesday HB 700 – Relating to the repeal of the Texas B-On-time student loan program (introduced by Representative Helen Giddings)