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Bill

HB 1289

Relating to measures to address student hunger at postsecondary educational institutions.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by John Bucy and 2 co-sponsors

Texas HB 1289 mandates postsecondary institutions establish food insecurity programs including pantries and emergency assistance to address student hunger and improve academic success.

Referred to Higher Education
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Bill Summary · HB 1289

Legislative bill overview

HB 1289 requires Texas postsecondary educational institutions to implement measures addressing student food insecurity, including establishing food pantries, meal plans, and emergency assistance programs. The bill directs colleges and universities to assess hunger needs on campus and develop comprehensive strategies to improve student access to adequate nutrition.

Why is this important

Food insecurity among college students directly impacts academic performance, mental health, and retention rates. Studies show 30-40% of college students experience food insecurity, yet many institutions lack coordinated support systems. Addressing this issue can reduce dropout rates and improve overall student success metrics.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding burden: The bill does not specify funding sources, potentially requiring institutions to redirect existing budgets or seek new appropriations during budget constraints
  • Implementation flexibility: Lack of specific mandates on program types and scale may result in inconsistent support quality across institutions of varying sizes and resources
  • Student eligibility criteria: Undefined parameters for determining which students qualify for assistance could create equity concerns or administrative complexity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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