Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB06583

Introduced
3/4/21  
Introduced
3/4/21  

Caption

An Act Requiring Independent Institutions Of Higher Education To Submit Closure Plans To The Office Of Higher Education.

Impact

The legislation will impact the operational protocols of independent institutions significantly. By requiring these educational entities to have a well-defined closure plan, the bill aims to protect student interests and secure their records efficiently. This requirement also stipulates communication with regional accrediting agencies and the Department of Education, ensuring that closures are managed properly and do not adversely affect students' educational journeys or financial aid.

Summary

House Bill 6583 mandates that independent institutions of higher education submit a detailed closure plan to the Office of Higher Education. This plan must include strategies for responding to various emergencies such as natural disasters or pandemics, as well as protocols for managing student records and ensuring the continuity of education for enrolled students. The bill is designed to enhance transparency and preparedness in the event that an institution decides to close permanently or even temporarily.

Contention

Although the bill generally aims to safeguard students and improve institutional accountability, there may be areas of contention regarding its implementation. For example, institutions may voice concerns about the administrative burden this legislation might impose, particularly smaller colleges that may lack the resources to develop comprehensive closure plans. There may also be debates on the adequacy of the timelines given for institutions to comply with these requirements, particularly in emergency situations.

Conclusions

In conclusion, HB 6583 seeks to unify the standards around institutional closures within the higher education sector, benefiting students through enhanced protection and operational clarity. While the intentions behind the bill are largely viewed as positive, its practical implications and potential challenges for institutions will be crucial points for discussion as the bill continues through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05341

An Act Requiring Reporting Of Projected And Actual Revenues And Expenditures At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB05363

An Act Concerning The Planning Commission For Higher Education.

CT HB05362

An Act Defining Connecticut Institution Of Higher Education And Out-of-state Institution Of Higher Education For The Purposes Of The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement.

CT HB05276

An Act Eliminating Tax Exemptions For Certain Real Property Acquired By Independent Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB05128

An Act Requiring Disclosure Of Scholarship Displacement Policies At Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT SB00236

An Act Concerning A Fee Waiver At Public Institutions Of Higher Education For Certain Veterans And Members Of The National Guard.

CT SB00107

An Act Updating Requirements For Construction Management Oversight At The University Of Connecticut, Pausing The Requirement For A Plan To Increase The Number Of Full-time Faculty At Public Institutions Of Higher Education And Replacing References To The President Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities With The Chancellor Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities.

CT SB00014

An Act Assisting School Districts In Improving Educational Outcomes, Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Education And The Technical Education And Career System And Establishing Early Start Ct.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

CT HB05340

An Act Allowing Third-party Victims To Participate In An Investigation Or Disciplinary Proceeding By An Institution Of Higher Education.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

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TX SB174

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CA AB1344

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NJ A5181

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NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.