| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral |
Relating to the administration of the governor’s university
research initiative.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
SB 1525 would expand eligibility to participate as a distinguished researcher under The Governor's University Research Initiative. This would be done by changing the definition of "distinguished researcher" to include "a highly prestigious national academic as defined by office rule" or a "group of researchers" who have attained certain recognition.
The bill would also create an advisory board for the purpose assisting with the review and evaluation of applications for funding of relevant grant proposals. According to the author's statement of intent, this bill is designed to bring in more mid-career researchers from out of state and retain more of those already in Texas.
While the existence of the Governor's University Research Initiative is a dubious use of public resources, expanding eligibility to participate in the initiative does not appear to weigh on our liberty principles. Texas Action is neutral toward SB 1525.