TITLE: Relating to the creation of a pilot program to allow high schools in certain counties to connect to high-speed fiber-optic networks.

SUMMARY: Relating to the creation of a pilot program to allow high schools in certain counties to connect to high-speed fiber-optic networks.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the creation of a pilot program to allow high schools in certain counties to connect to high-speed fiber-optic networks. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter C, Chapter 7, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 7.068 to read as follows: Sec. 7.068. PILOT PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL FIBER-OPTIC CONNECTIONS. Using funds appropriated or otherwise available for that purpose, the commissioner shall create and administer a pilot program to enable at least 14 high schools in counties that border the Gulf of Mexico or that are located on an international border to build infrastructure to connect to existing high-speed fiber-optic networks. The commissioner may enter into contracts or agreements with public or private institutions of higher education or public or private entities as necessary to allow for the implementation of the pilot program. SECTION 2. As soon as possible after the effective date of this Act, the commissioner of education shall create the pilot program under Section 7.068, Education Code, as added by this Act, and shall begin entering into contracts or agreements with appropriate entities to implement the pilot program. SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2017.