(a) In this section:
(1) "Institution of higher education" has the meaning assigned by Section 61.003 of this code, but includes the Southwest College for the Deaf and Texas State Technical College System.
(2) "Religious holy day" means a holy day observed by a religion whose places of worship are exempt from property taxation under Section 11.20, Tax Code.
(b) An institution of higher education shall excuse a student from attending classes or other required activities, including examinations, for the observance of a religious holy day, including travel for that purpose. A student whose absence is excused under this subsection may not be penalized for that absence and shall be allowed to take an examination or complete an assignment from which the student is excused within a reasonable time after the absence.
(c) Repealed by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 218, Sec. 2.
(d) A student who is excused under this section may not be penalized for the absence, but the instructor may appropriately respond if the student fails to satisfactorily complete the assignment or examination.
(e) The Coordinating Board, Texas College and University System, shall adopt rules for the implementation of this section and shall disseminate the rules to the appropriate institutions under its jurisdiction.