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THECB approves streamlined operating procedures, including one-day meetings and a consent agenda
Summary
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board approved revisions to its operating policies to remove embedded statutory text, move to a single-day meeting format, and add a consent agenda, with members agreeing hyperlinks to statutes can be included for ease of reference.
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board on Nov. 12 approved revisions to its operating policies that remove embedded statutory language from the board’s procedures, move the board toward a single-day meeting format, and establish a standing consent agenda.
Doug Brock, assistant general counsel, told the board the changes were designed “for efficiency,” explaining the revisions remove embedded statements of law and instead link to relevant statutes so the procedures remain current when laws change. Brock said the revisions also eliminate standing committees from the written procedures so the board can meet in one day, while preserving the board’s authority to form committees when needed.
Members raised questions about whether removing statutory language would make the document harder to use. Emma Navara said embedding the code can be easier to read in paper exhibit books, noting that some members “just don’t read” lengthy exhibits. Brock and staff responded that hyperlinks could be added and that statutory language remains available elsewhere.
The board also approved creating a consent agenda to bundle routine items into a single motion and vote, with any board member able to remove an item for separate discussion. Chair Stacy Hawk said the new agenda structure will allow the board to “focus more on the policy decisions” during public meetings.
Ashley Thomas moved to approve the revisions; the motion was seconded and members voted in favor. The chair announced the motion passed.
