The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) proposes to amend §15.43, concerning the eligibility criteria to receive distributions from the National Research University Fund. The intent of the amendments is to clarify: the academic achievement of a freshman class, faculty distinctions are counted for each of two years measured, and faculty awards of distinction are counted only in the year the award was given.

Dr. Rex C. 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 the rule.

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 section will be the clarification of how criteria of eligibility for the National Research University Fund are measured. There are no significant economic costs anticipated to persons and institutions who are required to comply with the section 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 62, Subchapter G, §62.146, which authorized the Coordinating Board to prescribe standard methods of reporting for determining the eligibility of institutions to receive distributions from the National Research University Fund.

The amendments affect the implementation of Texas Education Code, Chapter 62, Subchapter G, National Research University Fund.