Louisiana Senate Bill SR171

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/3/13
• Passed: 6/4/13

Caption

Requests the Board of Regents to study the feasibility of creating charter colleges and universities.

Impact

Should this resolution lead to actionable changes, it proposes a restructuring of the relationship between state governance and public education. The Board of Regents would analyze the administrative and financial interactions with these institutions to determine if greater autonomy might lead to improved outcomes. This potential transition towards a charter model could impact funding mechanisms and operational decision-making processes, which might ultimately redefine state involvement in higher education.

Summary

Senate Resolution 171 urges the Board of Regents to study the feasibility of designating public postsecondary education institutions as charter colleges or universities. The resolution emphasizes that long-term economic strength is closely linked to the performance of public colleges and universities, which should adapt under budgetary constraints to provide high-quality education more efficiently. It calls for a review of how increased flexibility in finance and operations management can enhance productivity and accountability within these institutions.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding SR171 highlight a general positive sentiment towards innovations in higher education governance. Proponents argue that charter status could empower colleges and universities to respond more adeptly to both educational and economic demands. However, while there are advocates for greater institutional autonomy, concerns remain regarding the implications such changes would have on state oversight and accountability, suggesting a cautious approach may be needed as the study is undertaken.

Contention

The dialogue surrounding the resolution recognizes that while charter colleges could provide benefits like increased operational efficiency, there could also be challenges such as potential reductions in state control and oversight. The feasibility study mandated by SR171 will need to explore legal, statutory, and operational hurdles that such a structural shift would entail. Engaging stakeholders in higher education will be critical as the resolution envisions a collaborative approach to consider these changes.