AUSTIN, Texas - Gov. Greg Abbott is directing the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to form a working group to develop a statewide framework for three-year bachelor's degrees.

What they're saying: "Every semester adds tuition, fees, housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses and delays students' ability to begin their careers," Abbott said.

"Texas students deserve the option to receive a degree in a high-demand, high-wage field in less time. I direct the Coordinating Board to develop a statewide framework for three-year bachelor's degree pathways." What we know: The working group is expected to consider a variety of factors and provide recommendations.