Connecticut House Bill HB05830

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Approval Of Nominations To The Board Of Trustees Of The University Of Connecticut And The Board Of Regents For Higher Education.

Impact

The amendment proposed in HB 05830 will create a formal process for the nomination and approval of members to important education governance entities in Connecticut. This change would promote a more accountable and transparent selection process, allowing legislators to exercise their oversight powers and consider the qualifications and backgrounds of nominees. Such a system aims to bolster the effectiveness of the Board of Trustees and the Board of Regents, ultimately benefiting the educational framework across the state.

Summary

House Bill 05830 proposes an amendment to section 4-9c of the general statutes to ensure that all nominations to the Board of Trustees of the University of Connecticut, as well as the Board of Regents for Higher Education, must receive the approval from the joint standing committee of the General Assembly that oversees higher education. This change is aimed at enhancing the legislative oversight on appointments to these critical educational governance bodies, thereby ensuring that appointed members are aligned with the interests and standards set forth by the state legislature.

Contention

While the bill seeks to improve oversight, it may also raise concerns about the potential for political influence in the selection process. Critics may argue that requiring legislative approval could politicize the appointments, diminishing the independence of educational institutions and potentially leading to an imbalance in decision-making. Furthermore, the change could slow down the nomination process, leading to delays in filling vacancies on these boards, which could impact the governance and operations of higher education institutions in Connecticut.