Connecticut House Bill HB05900

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21

Caption

An Act Requiring Legislative Approval For The Merger Or Closing Of Institutions Within The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities.

Impact

If passed, HB 05900 will alter existing procedures by ensuring that the legislative body has a direct say in decisions that could significantly affect public education within the state. Currently, mergers and closures are typically within the purview of the Board of Regents, and this bill would serve to check that authority, likely enhancing transparency and accountability. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect educational institutions from abrupt changes that might not be in the best interest of the students or local stakeholders.

Summary

House Bill 05900 aims to establish a requirement for legislative approval before any recommendations regarding the merger or closure of institutions within the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) can be made by the Board of Regents for Higher Education. This bill addresses concerns about maintaining institutional integrity and the potential impacts of such decisions on students, staff, and local communities. The bill mandates that any significant changes to the structure of these educational institutions be subjected to scrutiny and approval by the legislature.

Contention

Notably, there may be varied opinions on this bill's implications. Proponents suggest that requiring legislative oversight could lead to better-informed decisions regarding the future of educational institutions, potentially preventing hasty actions that could negatively impact students. However, critics might argue that this requirement could slow down necessary changes or interventions needed within the state’s higher education system. Balancing the need for institutional adaptability with legislative oversight is likely to be a focal point of the discussions surrounding HB 05900.