WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 158

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Emergency Aid for Public Postsecondary Students (TEAPPS) grant program for students at certain public institutions of higher education.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by José Menéndez

Texas bill creates TEAPPS emergency grant program for public university students facing financial hardship, pending funding source and eligibility specification.

Referred to Education K-16
#education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #education--higher--studentfinancialaid(i0235) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 158

Legislative bill overview

SB 158 proposes establishing the Texas Emergency Aid for Public Postsecondary Students (TEAPPS) grant program to provide financial assistance to students attending public higher education institutions in Texas. The bill creates a new funding mechanism specifically designed to support students facing emergency financial hardships during their academic careers.

Why is this important

Student financial hardship is a significant barrier to college completion, with many students dropping out due to unexpected expenses unrelated to tuition. By creating a dedicated emergency grant program, the bill addresses a documented gap in financial aid availability and could improve retention rates and degree completion, particularly for low-income and vulnerable student populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source: The bill does not specify where TEAPPS funding will originate, raising questions about whether it requires new state appropriations or reallocation from existing higher education budgets
  • Eligibility criteria: Unclear whether all students or only specific populations (income-based, citizenship status, academic standing) would qualify, which could affect program scope and cost
  • Institution participation: Ambiguity around whether participation by public institutions would be mandatory or voluntary, potentially creating unequal access across the state

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

Sign in to ask a question.