Austin, TX -- The Texas Senate Tuesday (April 24) passed Senate Bill 1052 by Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, which would provide financial incentives for students who complete core curriculum requirements at community colleges to transfer to four-year institutions.

Providing incentives for students to transfer from two- to four-year institutions would increase college accessibility and affordability while helping increase attendance and participation at universities throughout Texas. The bill significantly would help close educational gaps within the state and promote student success and institutional excellence.

"The rapid growth of our state, coupled with the goal of enrolling another 600,000 students in higher education, require planning and incentives," Senator Zaffirini said. "By promoting transfers from two- to four-year institutions, we increase students' options for success. SB 1052 is essential to closing the gaps in higher education by providing an incentive for students to transfer from two- to four-year institutions."

The bill must be passed by the House of Representatives before it can be sent to Governor Rick Perry for final approval. The continued progress of this and all bills authored by Senator Zaffirini can be monitored via the internet at www.zaffirini.senate.state.tx.us or by contacting the Texas Legislative Reference Library's toll free in-state hotline, 1-877-824-7038.

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