Gun Legislation
This week started with a “bang” as the Public Safety Committee considered legislation that would allow guns on campus — a subject that has attracted a great deal of attention on both sides of the issue. During previous legislative sessions, similar bills have been filed; however, the Virginia Tech tragedy and other incidents have served as a catalyst, giving this bill its momentum.
Based on the impact this legislation could have on our campuses, DCCCD will continue to monitor this discussions as the issue moves forward. [More on the primary bill to allow guns on campus: HB 1893]
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Budget
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the full Senate debated the budget recommendations of the Senate Finance Committee. This budget includes additional funding for community colleges, but it also contains the strict definition of proportionality.
The 905-page, $182 billion budget bill ultimately passed the Senate, 26-5. Now the budget moves to the House side for consideration; that discussion is scheduled on April 17.
For details about the budget, read the Dallas Morning News story.
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Proportionality Bill
The proportionality bill — HB 2083 — continues to gain momentum. More than 50 members now have signed on to support the bill. Next Monday, Dr. Lassiter will be one of two CEOs who will testify as the bill is considered by the House Appropriations Committee. This meeting will be our first full public discussion about this topic. [More about HB 2083]
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House Higher Education Committee
On Wednesday, the House Higher Education Committee considered a number of bills related to tuition rates. DCCCD is particularly interested in HB 1568, which would authorize a tuition exemption for district employees. [More about HB 1568]
We also are interested in HB 685, which would provide a fixed tuition rate for a period of two years. [More about HB 685]
The committee also heard HB 3267, which would change the criteria for awarding Texas Grants. This legislation is one of a handful of bills that would seek to change these criteria -- and not in a way that necessarily benefits most DCCCD students. More discussion will come next week on this issue. [More about HB 3267]
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