(Austin, TX) – Friday. Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 37 into law. This devastating higher education legislation would impose political control over curriculum decisions, limit the scope of learning, discourage critical thinking, and deprive students of the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly global and interconnected economy.
This legislation proposes significant changes to the curriculum review process, redefines the role of faculty senates, increases the authority of governing boards over administrative hiring, and establishes an Office of the Ombudsman to address compliance concerns.
Signing this legislation into law undermines the foundation of higher education in Texas, making Texas universities less appealing to top talent, both students and faculty. The long-term consequences will harm Texas students and jeopardize the future of higher education in the state. The law will go into effect on September 1st.
In response, Kasey Corpus, Texas Policy and Advocacy Manager at Young Invincibles, said:
“Texas students deserve a full, honest education, not one shaped by political agendas. SB 37 oversteps, creating a chilling environment that stifles meaningful learning and growth, ultimately setting students up for failure. Texas House members recklessly fast-tracked this legislation over Memorial Day weekend, while many students were celebrating graduations with their families and preparing for their upcoming summer orientations. Allowing this bill to become law sends a direct message to students: Texas is not a welcoming place for open inquiry or rigorous education; Texas does not have the best interest of students at heart.”
Contact: Emma Bittner | (972) 510-3395 | [email protected]
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Young Invincibles (YI) is a national advocacy and policy nonprofit organization focused on amplifying the voice of young people in the political process at the local, state, and federal levels. YI focuses on issues impacting young adults ages 18 to 34 in higher education, health care, economic security, and civic engagement. Our offices include Washington, D.C., California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, and Texas. For more information, please contact Emma Bittner at (972) 510-3395 or [email protected]