Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced Sept. 10 an additional list of priorities for multiple Texas Senate committees.

The new priorities include examining programs and certifications “that maintain discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion practices” in Texas public universities. Patrick also asked the upcoming legislative session to address higher education core curriculum accessibility and evaluate previously passed legislation. 

Patrick has asked the subcommittee to make recommendations for any “needed reforms to ensure universities are appropriately educating students to meet workforce needs.” The Subcommittee on Higher Education will meet Sept. 24 to discuss the interim charges. 

“(The hearings will) expose how these programs and their curriculum are damaging and not aligned with state workforce demands,” Patrick said in the official proclamation of the interim charges. 

A University spokesperson said they were “unaware” of any plans for University officials or administration to testify before the committee’s Sept. 24  session. 

Patrick’s announcement of new priorities follows his original April 11 announcement of the state Senate’s priorities. Patrick said a second list of interim charges was necessary, and 31 state senators gave suggestions for legislative priorities. The request comes after the University laid off over 60 staff members last semester in compliance with Senate Bill 17. 

“The Senate will hit the ground running to ensure the priorities of the conservative majority of Texans are accomplished,” Patrick said in a press release.