STUDY ON USE AND AVAILABILITY OF ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS

(a) The board shall conduct a study and recommend policies regarding the use and availability of electronic textbooks in higher education in this state and in other states. The study and policy recommendations must include a specific focus on the results of the pilot program implemented by The University of Texas at Austin with respect to the use of electronic textbooks and must address methods for encouraging the use of electronic textbooks at public or private institutions of higher education in this state. (b) Each student regent serving under Section 51.355 or 51.356 shall assist the board in performing the board's duties under Subsection (a). The board shall establish procedures to assist a student regent in complying with this subsection. (c) The board may solicit and accept gifts and grants from any public or private source to conduct the study and develop policy recommendations under this section. (d) Expired.