Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced that the state's public universities will be barred from raising tuition rates for the next two academic years, aiming to protect students from rising economic pressures.
Texas lawmakers and university leaders agreed in 2023 to freeze tuition rates for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years in exchange for increased state funding. The decision was followed by a $700 million boost to the state's higher education budget.
With the current freeze nearing its expiration, Abbott committed on Wednesday to extending the policy. The move will prevent public universities in Texas from raising tuition for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years.
"As this tuition freeze expires, let me be clear: I will not support any tuition increase at any public higher education institution in the upcoming biennium. My office has spoken to the Board of Regents at every public university system, and we are in agreement that no institution in Texas should approve tuition increases for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic school years," Abbott wrote in a letter.
After publicizing his decision, the governor received unanimous support from university Boards of Regents.
"The State has made historic investments in higher education, including increased funding for universities and financial aid programs," Abbott wrote. "These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring that higher education remains accessible and affordable for all Texans.
"When all Texans have access to quality and affordable education, they can earn better wages, meet workforce qualifications, and experience a higher quality of life I will ensure college affordability remains a top priority for the state as we head into the next legislative session."
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