The Texas State legislature extended eligibility for state student financial aid programs to certain non-citizens in the 2001 legislative session. This legislation is known as HB 1403 or the "Noriega Bill". To receive assistance from state aid programs the student must:

• Have resided with the individual's parent, guardian, or conservator while attending a public or private high school in this state, and
• Have lived in Texas at least three years as of the date of the G.E.D. or high school graduation, and
• Have earned a G.E.D. or graduated from a public or private high school in Texas, and
• Be registered as an entering student in an institution of higher education not earlier than the 2001 fall semester.

In addition, these individuals must sign an affidavit in the college's admissions office stating that they will apply for permanent resident status when they are eligible.