Story perspectives

Texas Ends ABA Oversight, Opens Bar Exam to Non-ABA Grads

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas ends American Bar Association oversight of its law schools, and Texas Supreme Court issued an order finalizing the decision allowing graduates from non-ABA accredited schools to take the Texas bar exam.
The move establishes state-approved criteria.
The shift followed tensions with the ABA and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, including funding cuts.
Some law school deans oppose the move, while Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee consider similar actions.

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Story summary

Texas ends American Bar Association oversight of its law schools, and Texas Supreme Court issued an order finalizing the decision allowing graduates from non-ABA accredited schools to take the Texas bar exam.
The move establishes state-approved criteria.
The shift followed tensions with the ABA and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, including funding cuts.
Some law school deans oppose the move, while Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee consider similar actions.