The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) proposes amendments to §5.72 and §5.76 of Board rules concerning the operation of off-campus educational units of public senior colleges, universities, and health-related institutions.

The intent of the amendments is to provide accurate reference to Board authority and clarification of provisions of faculty in the Authority and General Principles for Off-Campus Education Units sections of Chapter 5, Subchapter D. Language has been added to accurately reference the correct sections of the Texas Education Code as they relate to the authority of the Board to create and administer Chapter 5, Subchapter D rules and provisions of faculty for off-campus educational units. Language was also added to reference the correct title of Chapter 17 as it relates to the facilities of off-campus educational units. The amended rules will affect public institutions of higher education on or after the 2015 fall semester.

Dr. Rex Peebles, Assistant Commissioner for Academic Quality and Workforce, has determined that for the first five years there will be no fiscal implications for state or local governments as a result of amending §5.72 and §5.76.

Dr. Peebles has also determined that for the first five years the amendments are in effect, the public benefits anticipated as a result of administering the sections will be the clarification of Board authority and provisions of faculty for off-campus educational units in the Authority and General Principles for Off-Campus Education Units sections of Chapter 5, Subchapter D rules. There is no effect on small businesses. There are no anticipated economic costs to persons who are required to comply with the sections as proposed. There is no impact on local employment.

Comments on the proposed amendments may be submitted by mail to Rex C. Peebles, Assistant Commissioner, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, P.O. Box 12788, Austin, Texas 78711 or via email at AQWComments@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, Chapter 61, Subchapter C, §61.0512(g), which provides the Board with the authority to approve distance education programs and courses.

The amendments do not affect the Texas Education Code.