The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §5.44 and §5.50 concerning planning authority for degree programs and the delegation of authority for approval of new degree programs at public universities and health-related institutions. Specifically, the amendments change the term planning authority to preliminary authority, and permit the Commissioner to delegate to the Assistant Commissioner for Academic Affairs and Research approval of new degree programs at public universities and health-related institutions.

Dr. Marshall A. Hill, Assistant Commissioner for Universities and Health-Related Institutions, has determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rules.

Dr. Hill has also determined that for each year of the first five years the section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering these sections will be the clarification of the concept of preliminary authority, more control by the Board for approval of doctoral programs, and increased institutional flexibility in strategic planning. There is no effect on small businesses. There is no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the section as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed rules may be submitted to Marshall A. Hill, Ph.D., Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711-2788, or by e-mail to Marshall.Hill@thecb.state.tx.us. Comments will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposed rules in the Texas Register.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §61.027, which provides the Coordinating Board with general rule-making authority; §61.002, which establishes the Coordinating Board as an agency charged to provide leadership and coordination for the Texas higher education system; and §61.051, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to coordinate institutions of public higher education in promoting quality education.

Texas Education Code, §61.002; and Texas Education Code, §61.051.