The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board proposes amendments to §§5.71 - 5.73, 5.76, and 5.78 of Board rules relating to Operation of Off-Campus Educational Units of Public Senior Colleges, Universities and Health-Related Institutions concerning the approval and operation of off-campus educational units. The intent of the amendments is to clarify and streamline rules to reflect current statute, rule references, policies, and practices regarding the approval processes and operation of off-campus educational units.

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 listed above.

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 clarifying of rules regarding the approval processes and operation of off-campus educational units in Texas. 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 G, §61.0512(g), which authorized the Coordinating Board to approve off-campus courses offered by institutions of higher education within the state.

The proposed amendments affect the implementation of Texas Education Code, §61.0512(g).