Louisiana House Bill HB1012

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10

Caption

Authorizes public postsecondary education institutions to enter into performance agreements to be granted certain authority including to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts for students

Impact

The bill proposes significant changes to the funding and operational frameworks of public postsecondary institutions. By enabling institutions to raise tuition based on their performance, it aligns financial incentives with educational outcomes. The adoption of performance agreements is intended to encourage institutions to focus on key metrics, such as the number of graduates and the promotion of innovation in program offerings. However, the increased tuition could also raise concerns about accessibility and affordability for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.

Summary

House Bill 1012 authorizes public postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana to enter into performance agreements with the Board of Regents. These agreements aim to grant institutions the autonomy to increase tuition and mandatory fees in exchange for meeting specific objectives, such as enhancing graduation rates, improving admission standards, and eliminating underperforming academic programs. The measure emphasizes a results-oriented approach to higher education funding, promoting accountability among institutions regarding student outcomes and institutional effectiveness.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1012 is mixed. Supporters view the bill as a positive step toward ensuring that higher education institutions are held accountable for their performance and are encouraged to improve graduation rates. They argue that aligning funding with results will ultimately benefit students and the workforce. Conversely, critics express concerns over potential tuition hikes and the risk that financial pressures could compromise academic integrity and access. The debate reflects broader tensions between accountability measures and the imperative to maintain affordable education.

Contention

Key points of contention include the implications of tuition increases and the prioritization of performance metrics in evaluating institutions. Opponents worry that relying heavily on performance outcomes may inadvertently disadvantage institutions serving a diverse student body or those facing unique challenges in meeting high graduation rates. This could lead to a concentration of resources in a few successful institutions while marginalizing those that contribute to a more diverse educational landscape. The broader implications of such funding models in relation to equity and access in higher education remain central to discussions around HB 1012.