HB 102

"Most people don’t hear about the laws that actually try to do something right. They’re not flashy. They don’t make headlines. But HB 102 is one of those bills that quietly makes sense. It won’t fix everything, but it fixes something real for a group of Texans who genuinely deserve support.

This new law says that if a public college or university in Texas gives early class registration to any student group—like athletes, honors students, or student leaders—then they also have to give it to students in military programs. That includes ROTC, the Corps of Cadets, and maritime academies. In plain terms, if you’re waking up early to train, drill, and serve your country while working toward a degree, you shouldn’t be the one struggling to get into the classes you need to graduate on time.

It sounds like common sense because it is. These students already have packed, demanding schedules. If they get blocked from registering for key classes, it can delay their education and hurt their future military careers. This law doesn't hand them anything extra. It just puts them on equal ground with other students who already get early access.

And here’s what it’s not. It’s not some hidden budget scheme. It’s not a backdoor tax break. There’s no fine print that hands control to a private contractor or creates a new agency that no one’s watching. It’s simple policy that supports students who’ve made a real commitment to serve.

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will write the rules to make this happen. The one thing to watch is whether schools actually follow through, especially if their early registration policies are vague or informal. But overall, this one looks clean.

No drama. No special interests. Just a smart adjustment that makes life a little easier for students doing double duty in the classroom and in uniform.

If you know someone in ROTC or the Corps at a Texas college, this law could make a difference for them. And if you’re someone who’s tired of seeing politics used as a power game, take this as a reminder. Sometimes, the Legislature does get it right.

Stay sharp. Stay informed. And keep watching. Because the more we notice, the more likely they’ll keep doing what actually helps."