TITLE: Relating to early registration for students in military-related programs at public institutions of higher education.

SUMMARY: Relating to early registration for students in military-related programs at public institutions of higher education.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to early registration for students in military-related programs at public institutions of higher education. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter Z, Chapter 51, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 51.9835 to read as follows: Sec. 51.9835. EARLY REGISTRATION FOR STUDENTS IN MILITARY-RELATED PROGRAMS. (a) In this section, "institution of higher education" has the meaning assigned by Section 61.003. (b) If an institution of higher education provides early registration for courses or programs for any group of students, the institution shall provide early registration for those courses or programs for students who are: (1) enrolled and in good standing in a Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program; (2) members in good standing in a corps of cadets, including a corps of cadets at a senior military college; or (3) enrolled and in good standing in a maritime academy. (c) The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, in consultation with institutions of higher education, shall adopt rules as necessary to implement and administer this section. SECTION 2. Section 51.9835, Education Code, as added by this Act, applies beginning with registration for a course or program for the 2026 spring semester. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.