SENATE BILL 17
During the 88th regular session in 2023, the Texas Legislature passed and the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 17, which prohibits certain initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion at public institutions of higher education, including community colleges. The law was effective January 1, 2024. The full text of Texas Education Code, Section 51.3525 can be found here. Additionally, the Texas Association of School Board Community College Services developed a usefulFAQ that details the law and the responsibilities it places on institutions.
The South Plains College administrative teams have thoroughly reviewed the statute together with existing campus programs and policies. Ensuring full compliance with SB 17 will be an ongoing process as the impacts of the new law evolve; however, we are committed to this work and compliance with the legislative directives.
SENATE BILL 37
In compliance with SB37, all SPC courses for Fall 2026 have been reviewed by the Dean of Arts/Sciences and the respective Chairperson to ensure that the curriculum:
(1) Is foundational and fundamental toa postsecondaryeducation.
(2) Is necessary to prepare students for civic and professional life.
(3) Equips students for workforce participation and societal betterment.
(4) Maintains a breadth of knowledge aligned with accreditation standards.
(5) Adheres to neutral instruction standards, prohibiting content that requires students to adopt beliefsregardingthe inherent superiority of any race, sex, ethnicity, or social/political ideology.
