Sign up for The BriefThe Texas Tribune’s daily newsletter that keeps readers updated on the most essential Texas news.

Govt. Greg Abbott said Wednesday that it will not support any tuition increases at Texas colleges and universities for the next two years, continuing the tuition freeze currently in place.

In a letter to public colleges and universities, Abbott said he has spoken with all of the university system’s boards of regents, whose members agree with his position.

“The state has made historic investments in higher education, including increased funding for universities and financial aid programs,” Abbott wrote in his letter. “These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring that higher education remains affordable and accessible to all Texans. When all Texans have access to a quality, affordable education, they can earn better wages, meet workforce qualifications, and experience a better quality of life. I will ensure that college affordability remains a top priority for the state as we head into the next legislative session.

Last legislative session, lawmakers allocated an additional $700 million to the state budget for Texas public universities.

University leaders requested the additional funds earlier in the session and agreed to keep undergraduate tuition flat for the 2024-2025 budget cycle if the state provided a financial boost.

The average cost of tuition and fees for in-state students attending a public university is $28,724.

The Texas Tribune partners with Open Campus to cover higher education.