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HB 2917

Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private institutions of higher education.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mary González

Texas bill creates support program for students with intellectual/developmental disabilities to access skills training and support services at higher education institutions.

Referred to Higher Education
#disabilities #personswith(i0380) #education--higher--admission&attendance(i0257) #education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #education--higher--privateschools(i0238) #education--higher--studentfinancialaid(i0235) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HB 2917

Legislative bill overview

HB 2917 establishes the Building Better Futures Program in Texas to provide educational and occupational skills training opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) at both public and private higher education institutions. The bill includes funding and support services designed to help this student population access meaningful post-secondary education and career pathways.

Why is this important

Students with IDD have historically had limited access to post-secondary education and workforce development opportunities compared to their non-disabled peers. This program directly addresses employment and independence outcomes for a vulnerable population while potentially reducing long-term state support costs through increased self-sufficiency and employment rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and amount: The bill's fiscal impact is unclear without seeing appropriation details; it may require new state funding during budget constraints
  • Program scope and institutional burden: Questions about whether participation requirements for private institutions are appropriate and how much institutional infrastructure changes are mandated
  • Accountability measures: Lack of detail on how program success will be measured, tracked, and reported to ensure effective use of resources and prevent waste
  • Eligibility criteria: Specificity needed on which students qualify and whether geographic or institutional inequities in access will be addressed

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

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