Lege Preview: Nov. 11 Senate Subcommittee on Higher Education

On Monday, Nov. 11, the Texas Senate Higher Education Subcommittee will hold a public hearing focusing on the future of faculty senates and so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and certificates in higher education. This hearing comes at a pivotal moment as lawmakers prepare for the 89th legislative session beginning in January 2025.

The committee will consider two particularly concerning charges: a review of faculty senates and like groups that could reshape shared governance in our institutions of higher education, and an examination of so-called DEI programs and certifications framed around alignment with "state workforce demands," a pretext that appears designed to expand the application of Senate Bill 17 - Texas's "DEI ban" - to apply to academic instruction and curriculum.

The committee will also consider a charge related to improving K-12 college pathways, with a focus on reviewing Advanced Placement courses and dualcredit courses and examining the transfer requirements required for students to receive higher education course credit.

Your voice is essential in this process. Faculty, staff, and supporters of higher education can make an impact by:

1. Testifying in Person: Join us at the Texas Capitol on Nov. 11 (approximately 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) to share your two-minute testimony as a private citizen. Texas AFT and our coalition partners will provide on-site support and guidance. The hearing will be located in room E1.028, with kiosks available for witness registration in the nearby hallways. The most impactful testimony will come from educators and staff sharing their personal experience with shared governance and how academic freedom and teaching practices that foster critical thinking and diverse perspectives benefit their students. Those planning to testify should be prepared to spend several hours at the Capitol, as hearing schedules can be unpredictable.

1. Taking Action Remotely: If you cannot attend in person, you can still influence the process by contacting legislative offices and providing written testimony.

Texas AFT is working alongside a broad coalition representing civil rights organizations, students, and higher education professionals to defend academic freedom in our colleges and universities.

The outcomes of this hearing will shape upcoming legislation affecting higher education. We must stand together and ensure our lawmakers hear directly from the educators and staff who make our institutions of higher learning work.

To get involved or learn more about coordinating testimony, please fill out this form to indicate your interest in testifying or contact [email protected].