Connecticut Senate Bill SB01171

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Report Pass: 3/22/11
• Refer: 3/31/11
• Report Pass: 4/6/11
• Refer: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 4/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/20/11
• Refer: 5/11/11
• Report Pass: 5/16/11
• Report Pass: 5/17/11

Caption

An Act Establishing A Higher Education Technology Transfer Policy Board.

Impact

This legislation is expected to bolster the relationship between academia and industry, particularly in the sectors of technology and research. By creating a dedicated board, the bill will enable a systematic approach to evaluate the collaboration between higher education institutions and businesses. The board is tasked with developing strategies for negotiating partnerships and providing insights into the sectors most likely to generate job growth. This proactive stance aims to strengthen Connecticut’s position in the competitive technology landscape, promoting long-term job creation and economic stability.

Summary

Substitute Bill No. 1171 establishes the Higher Education Technology Transfer Policy Board in Connecticut, aimed at enhancing the state’s economic growth by facilitating technology transfer from higher education institutions to business sectors. The board will consist of thirteen voting members appointed from various educational and governmental bodies to oversee and guide technology transfer initiatives. The intent is to align educational outcomes with the needs of computing and technology industries, ensuring the state's universities and colleges can produce graduates equipped to meet sector demands.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB01171 appears to be largely positive among stakeholders in education and business sectors. Supporters view the bill as a vital step towards modernizing the state's approach to higher education and its role in economic development. However, concerns may arise regarding the effectiveness of the board’s oversight, the potential bureaucratic nature of the board’s recommendations, and whether it can truly meet the diverse needs of the technology sector across the state.

Contention

While SB01171 has garnered significant support, there may be underlying concerns about the board’s structure and the representation of different educational institutions. Critiques may focus on ensuring that all sectors of higher education, including community colleges and smaller universities, have a voice in the technology transfer process. Additionally, the bill's effectiveness will depend on the board’s ability to implement its recommendations and foster genuine partnerships between educational institutions and the business community, which may vary in effectiveness across different sectors and geographic regions.