AUSTIN -- Texas lawmakers soon will consider legislation that would temporarily freeze tuition at state universities.

But some higher education leaders are warning the move could blow a hole in their budgets and lower the value of a diploma from schools in Texas.

The Legislature convenes Tuesday.

Lawmakers six years ago, facing a $10 billion budget shortfall, gave universities broad latitude in setting tuition rates.

The Associated Press reports that helped spark a steady climb in college costs -- including a 53 percent rise for tuition and fees at state universities.

State Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa of McAllen has filed a bill that would put a two-year moratorium on tuition hikes at public universities. The plan would also peg future increases to the cost of living and require that most fee hikes be approved by a majority of students.

Rep. Geanie Morrison of Victoria sponsored the 2003 legislation that allowed universities to set their own tuition rates.

She said it would be a mistake to force tuition lower over time -- without offsetting the losses in revenue.