Legislation proposed in the Texas Senate would bring major reforms to higher education.
Senate Bill 37 was filed by State Sen. Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe), who chairs the Senate Education K-16 committee. Among other things, his measure aims to specify the roles of governing boards and faculty senates, whose authority has not been previously codified in law.
Creighton said the measure “strengthens university governance by enhancing oversight, ensuring institutions operate with integrity, fairness, and a commitment to student success.” SB 37 is among the 40 legislative priorities that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wants the Senate to pass before the end of the session.
Under SB 37, only a governing board could establish a faculty senate, which would be composed of tenured faculty and local industry partners, limited to two members per college or school within the university. For the first time in law, faculty senates would be recognized—but with their role defined as “advisory only.”
Governing boards would have final authority over hiring vice presidents, provosts, deans, and similar leadership positions, with the power to overturn university administrative decisions.
“By reaffirming the authority of the Board of Regents, SB 37 clearly defines university governance roles while increasing transparency in policies, hiring, curriculum, and financial decisions,” said Creighton.
Creighton’s proposal would require the institution’s governing boards to publicly announce meetings where finalists for positions will be considered. Boards must also submit an annual report to the governor and legislature detailing hiring and curriculum decisions.
In addressing curriculum, Creighton wants each institution to create a general education review committee, appointed by the governing board. The committee would be responsible for reviewing the university’s core curriculum to ensure it equips students with knowledge for participation in the workforce and “do[es] not endorse specific public policies, ideologies, or legislation.”
Further, Creighton said his legislation would eliminate “obsolete academic minors and certificate programs.” To avoid consolidation or elimination, 10 students must have graduated from a particular program in the two years before its review date.
“Strong oversight is essential to keeping Texas universities at the forefront of education and innovation,” stated Creighton. “With taxpayer dollars and students’ futures at stake, universities must operate with accountability. SB 37 ensures that our institutions remain focused on their core mission—educating students, driving innovation, and securing Texas’ place as a national leader in higher education.”
