Texas Governor to Decide Fate of Bill Limiting Faculty Influence on University Curricula

Texas Senate Bill 37, which aims to increase oversight of university curriculums, is on its way to Governor Greg Abbott's desk. The bill, sponsored by State Senator Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe), has sparked intense debate. Creighton stated that "Strong oversight is essential to keeping Texas universities at the forefront of education and innovation." The legislation would limit faculty influence on academic decisions, shifting more power to the university system's regents, who are political appointees. This change concerns some, who fear it could lead to the elimination of certain degree programs based on a return-on-investment model. David DeMatthews, a professor at UT Austin's College of Education, voiced concerns about this "government overreach and big government" approach, stating that it would focus on program evaluation based on investment returns rather than student choice. UT Austin President Jim Davis, however, stated that the university will "maximize student success" through implementation of the bill. The bill now awaits Governor Abbott's decision to sign it into law, veto it, or allow it to become law without his signature. The end of the legislative session means more such bills will be coming to the Governor's desk.