Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

SB 186 establishes the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program to provide tuition and mandatory fee assistance at public colleges for eligible students with disabilities. The program directly affects Texas residents enrolled in associate or bachelor's degree programs or certificate programs at public institutions of higher education who meet specific eligibility criteria. To qualify, students must be Texas residents, enrolled at least half-time, apply for other financial aid, and verify a disability through a physician diagnosis or approved documentation. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program, develop eligibility rules, and create a disability verification form with input from disability centers and advocacy groups. This bill creates a new state-funded scholarship program without requiring new state appropriations, instead allowing the board to use existing funds or accept donations.