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SB 186

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by José Menéndez

SB 186 creates a Texas scholarship program for students with disabilities at public universities to improve college access and affordability for this underserved population.

Referred to Education K-16
#disabilities #personswith(i0380) #education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #education--higher--studentfinancialaid(i0235) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280) #scholarships(s2123) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · SB 186

Legislative bill overview

SB 186 establishes the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program to provide financial aid to students with disabilities attending public higher education institutions in Texas. The program would create a dedicated funding mechanism to support this student population's educational access and completion.

Why is this important

Students with disabilities often face higher educational costs due to accessibility accommodations and support services, which can create barriers to college enrollment and degree completion. A dedicated scholarship program could improve educational equity and economic opportunity for this population while potentially increasing workforce participation among Texans with disabilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source: Unclear whether new appropriations are required or if existing education funds would be redirected, which could affect other programs or require new revenue measures
  • Eligibility criteria: Questions about how disability is defined, documented, and verified; whether all disability types are covered equally
  • Award amounts and availability: Uncertainty about scholarship amounts, whether funding is sufficient to meet demand, and whether awards would be need-based or merit-based
  • Implementation capacity: Public institutions may require resources for program administration, verification processes, and coordination across the system

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

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