Connecticut Senate Bill SB00929

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/15
• Refer: 2/18/15
• Report Pass: 3/19/15
• Refer: 3/27/15
• Report Pass: 4/2/15
• Engrossed: 4/14/15
• Report Pass: 4/15/15

Caption

An Act Concerning The Student Advisory Committee To The Board Of Regents For Higher Education And Criminal History Records Checks Of Faculty Members Of Institutions Of Higher Education In The State.

Impact

The bill introduces a formal structure for student involvement in higher education governance, potentially reshaping how decisions are made within the Board of Regents. The involvement of a dedicated student committee can lead to more responsive and relevant decision-making, as students directly affected by university policies will have a say in those discussions. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for criminal history records checks for faculty members, focusing on the safety and security environment within educational institutions.

Summary

SB00929 establishes a Student Advisory Committee to the Board of Regents for Higher Education in Connecticut, comprised of student representatives from various state colleges and universities. Its primary purpose is to assist the Board in performing its statutory functions and to provide a platform for student voices in the decision-making processes affecting higher education. The committee is mandated to meet biannually with the Board, ensuring that student perspectives are included in discussions on policies and governance.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB00929 appears to be supportive, with recognition of the importance of student engagement in higher education governance. Stakeholders emphasized that establishing a student advisory committee would enhance transparency and accountability within the Board. However, some concerns were noted regarding the implications of faculty background checks, as there could be apprehensions around privacy and the impact on faculty hiring practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between oversight and student autonomy, particularly in discussions surrounding the committee's powers and the nature of their recommendations to the Board. While proponents argue that this committee will empower students, there may be skepticism regarding whether the committee’s input will be genuinely valued in Board decisions or if it will serve merely as a symbolic gesture without substantive influence.