The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) proposes amendments to §15.10, concerning rules applying to provisions related to the Texas Research Incentive Program, with new text. Specifically, the proposed amended rule would establish a procedure regarding the return of donations to donors and the corresponding return of funds to the Texas Research Incentive Program. Additionally, the definition of a gift is clarified.

Ms. Susan Brown, Assistant Commissioner, Planning and Accountability, has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended section is in effect, there will not be any fiscal implications to state or local government as a result of enforcing or administering the rule.

Ms. Brown has determined that for each year of the first five years the amended section is in effect, the public benefit anticipated as a result of administering the section will be more efficient Board operations relating to distribution of funds allocated to this program by the legislature. There is no effect on small businesses. There are 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 amended section may be submitted to Gary W. Johnstone, Deputy Assistant Commissioner, Planning and Accountability, 1200 East Anderson Lane, Austin, Texas 78752, gary.johnstone@thecb.state.tx.us. Comments will be accepted for 30 days following publication of the proposal in the Texas Register.

The amendments are proposed under the Texas Education Code, §62.124, which provides the Coordinating Board with authority to adopt rules for the administration of Texas Education Code, Chapter 62, Subchapter F.

The amendments affect Texas Education Code, Chapter 62, Subchapter F.