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Bill

HB 319

Relating to the interest rate for student loans issued by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ryan Guillen

HB 319 adjusts interest rates for Texas state student loans, affecting borrowing costs for students and program revenue sustainability.

Referred to Higher Education
#education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #education--higher--studentfinancialaid(i0235) #highereducationcoordinatingboard #texas(v4280) #studentloans(s0036)
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Bill Summary · HB 319

Legislative bill overview

HB 319 modifies the interest rate structure for student loans issued through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). The bill was introduced in February 2025 and is currently under review by the Higher Education Committee. Specific details about the proposed rate changes are not publicly available in the filed version.

Why is this important

Student loan interest rates directly affect borrowing costs for Texas students and their families pursuing higher education. Changes to state loan programs can influence college affordability, student debt burdens, and the competitiveness of THECB loans relative to federal and private alternatives. This is particularly significant given rising education costs and growing student debt concerns nationally.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate direction unclear: Without knowing whether rates increase or decrease, stakeholders' positions differ—borrowers prefer lower rates while lenders/state budgets may prefer higher rates for revenue or program sustainability
  • Program competitiveness: Changes could affect whether THECB loans remain attractive compared to federal loans (which have fixed rates set by Congress) and private lenders
  • State budget impact: Interest rate modifications affect projected revenue for the THECB loan program and available funds for other higher education initiatives

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

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