Texas State Representative Penny Morales Shaw addressed questions about education funding, artificial intelligence, and resources available to families during a recent community briefing focused on youth issues.<\/p>\n
During the briefing, Morales Shaw responded to questions about the state\u2019s new Education Savings Account program, the impact of AI on children and resources available to immigrant families pursuing higher education.<\/p>\n
One topic discussed was Texas\u2019 new Education Savings Account program, known as the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), created through Senate Bill 2 and signed into law in 2025.<\/p>\n
The program is set to launch for the 2026-27 school year and provides eligible families with approximately $10,000 per student to use for approved educational expenses, including private school tuition, tutoring, transportation and school meals. Students with disabilities may qualify for additional funding, while homeschool students receive a smaller amount.<\/p>\n
The program is funded by the state, not directly by religious organizations. However, because many private schools in Texas are religiously affiliated, a significant portion of public funds is expected to go toward religious schools.<\/p>\n
Morales Shaw also addressed concerns about artificial intelligence and lawmakers\u2019 responses to the technology\u2019s rapid growth.<\/p>\n
Texas recently passed the Texas Responsible AI Governance Act, also known as TRAIGA or House Bill 149, which took effect in January 2026. The law establishes requirements around transparency, disclosure, and preventing discrimination for certain AI systems involving areas such as biometrics, content generation, and decision-making.<\/p>\n
The legislation also created a state AI Advisory Council to study potential risks and recommend future policies.<\/p>\n
Morales Shaw said AI is evolving faster than current regulations and expects additional discussions and legislation during the upcoming 90th legislative session, including possible policies focused on AI use in schools and access for minors.<\/p>\n
She also highlighted efforts by some educators to introduce \u201cunplugged AI\u201d lessons, where students learn how the technology works before using AI tools in their daily lives.<\/p>\n
The representative also highlighted resources available for families navigating higher education.<\/p>\n
Morales Shaw pointed to House Bill 1361, which requires public colleges and universities to designate liaison officers for student parents. These liaisons help connect students with resources involving health coverage, housing, food assistance and childcare.<\/p>\n
For immigrant families, she highlighted the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA), which helps eligible Texas residents who are not eligible for federal financial aid apply for state financial assistance and in-state tuition opportunities.<\/p>\n
Students may qualify if they meet requirements including:<\/p>\n
Being ineligible for federal financial aid <\/p>\n
Graduating from a Texas high school or earning a GED in Texas <\/p>\n
Living in Texas for at least three years before graduation or receiving a GED <\/p>\n
Residing in Texas for the 12 months before enrollment <\/p>\n
Planning to attend an eligible Texas college or university <\/p>\n
Morales Shaw also recommended resources from organizations that provide education guidance for immigrant families, including bilingual materials covering financial aid, student rights and navigating the K-12 and college systems.<\/p>\n
The representative encouraged families and community members with ideas or concerns about education policy, including AI and student access, to reach out to her office.<\/p>\n
The briefing was held July 10, 2026.<\/p>\n
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