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.
What changed between versions
Added mandatory five-year comprehensive reviews of general education curriculum with specific criteria to ensure courses are foundational, prepare students for civic/professional life, and avoid requiring adoption of specific ideological beliefs.
Added new requirements for reviewing minor degree and certificate programs based on enrollment data and workforce demand, with exemptions for programs operating less than five years.
Added requirement for annual evaluations of vice presidents, provosts, deans, and similar leadership positions overseeing curriculum or student affairs.
Established new Office of the Ombudsman to investigate complaints about institutional noncompliance with new curriculum and governance requirements, with specific complaint filing procedures and investigation timelines.
Modified faculty council/senate provisions to limit them to advisory-only roles, remove final decision-making authority, and restrict their ability to use official institutional resources for non-curriculum matters.
Added new definitions for 'general education curriculum' and 'shared governance' that emphasize governing board authority and limit faculty input to advisory recommendations only.
Added specific implementation deadlines including initial review completion by January 1, 2027, and advisory committee report submission by November 1, 2026.
