Amanda Garcia, a higher education organizer with Texas AFT, led a legislative briefing this week for Capitol staff alongside Texas AAUP-AFT President Dr. Brian Evans.
Texas legislators and university leaders are prioritizing research funding and dual-credit accessibility in higher education. A key focus is maintaining and expanding Carnegie R1 and R2 research distinctions, with institutions like Texas State aiming for R1 status by 2027. The University of Texas System reported $4.8 billion in research expenditures, while other universities, including Texas A&M, the University of North Texas, and the University of Houston, bring in hundreds of millions in funding. Legislators support expanding research funding but must also uphold academic freedom for faculty and students.
Efforts to expand dual-credit programs were also emphasized, particularly the FAST (Financial Aid for Swift Transfer) program, which has doubled dual-credit enrollment for economically disadvantaged students by covering tuition costs. However, a shortage of qualified teachers — who must hold master’s degrees — limits program growth.
System leaders are pushing for state funding to support graduate education for teachers and expand dual credit offerings to meet workforce demands.
Ensuring robust research funding and accessible higher education requires legislative support for both financial investment and academic freedom. More committee hearings are expected, and continued engagement is encouraged to track these developments.