Sec. 434.0072. "TAPS" TUITION VOUCHER PROGRAM. (a) In this section, "institution of higher education" and "private or independent institution of higher education" have the meanings assigned by Section 61.003, Education Code.

(b) The commission shall establish a program to issue vouchers to be exchanged for an exemption from the payment of tuition and required fees at an institution of higher education as provided by Section 54.344, Education Code, to students in grades 6 through 12 or at postsecondary educational institutions who sound "Taps" on a bugle, trumpet, or cornet during military honors funerals held in this state for deceased veterans. A voucher must be issued in the amount of $25 for each time a student sounds "Taps" as described by this subsection.

(c) The commission by rule shall design a form for the vouchers and distribute the form, with an explanation of the form's use, to each funeral director in this state for issuance to a person who is eligible to receive a voucher under this section. The commission may not charge a fee for distribution of the form.

(d) The commission shall encourage a private or independent institution of higher education to grant a tuition and fee exemption in exchange for a voucher.

(e) A voucher issued under this section may be used by the student at any time and is not transferable.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 660 (H.B. 1187), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 359 (S.B. 32), Sec. 13, eff. January 1, 2012.