California Assembly Bill AB1727

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Refer: 3/18/19
• Report Pass: 4/1/19
• Refer: 4/2/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/24/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/29/19
• Refer: 5/30/19
• Refer: 6/12/19
• Report Pass: 6/26/19
• Refer: 6/26/19
• Refer: 7/8/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/13/19
• Vetoed: 10/13/19

Caption

Community colleges: career development and college preparation courses.

Impact

The bill mandates that the California Community Colleges Board of Governors adopt regulations by May 31, 2020, to implement a new accounting method for determining state funding eligibility for community colleges based on student enrollment in these targeted courses. This legislative change may result in increased funding for districts, incentivizing them to offer more career-oriented education that aligns with job market demands. Furthermore, the bill is designed to alleviate the financial burden on local college districts by ensuring that the state reimburses any additional mandated costs.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1727, introduced by Assembly Member Weber, amends Section 84760.5 of the California Education Code, focusing on community colleges and their funding for career development and college preparation courses. It broadens the eligibility for state funding to include specific types of courses that do not grant credit, but support employability and prepare students for workforce readiness. This includes courses in basic skills, vocational training, as well as English as a second language classes, aiming to enhance job placement opportunities for students.

Sentiment

General sentiment around AB 1727 appears to be supportive among educational leaders and community college advocates who view it as a positive step towards improving access to vocational education and ensuring that students receive practical training that contributes to their employability. Stakeholders have largely emphasized the need for community colleges to adapt to the evolving job market and cater to diverse learning needs of students.

Contention

While AB 1727 is largely seen as beneficial, there are concerns regarding the implementation of new regulations and the resources necessary for community colleges to comply. Some critics argue that focusing state funding on specific courses may marginalize other important areas of education and complicate the funding process. The challenge will be in balancing the need for targeted workforce training with maintaining a broad spectrum of available educational programs.