Louisiana Senate Bill SB343

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 5/12/14
• Refer: 5/13/14

Caption

Constitutional amendment to authorize the postsecondary education management boards to establish tuition and fee amounts charged by institutions under their supervision and management. (2/3-CA13sl(A)) (EG INCREASE SG RV See Note)

Impact

If enacted, SB343 would significantly change the regulatory framework governing tuition and fee structures within Louisiana's higher education system. By transferring decision-making power from the legislature to education management boards, the law would likely streamline the process for setting tuition, potentially allowing institutions to adapt more quickly to economic changes and funding fluctuations. This alteration could impact the affordability of education and the financial management strategies of state-run higher education institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill 343 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at allowing postsecondary education management boards in Louisiana the authority to set tuition and mandatory fee amounts for institutions they oversee. Currently, Louisiana’s constitution requires that any new fees or increases in existing fees must receive a two-thirds legislative approval. This amendment seeks to exempt these boards from that requirement, thereby granting them more autonomy in determining tuition levels without the need for legislative consent.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB343 is mixed, reflecting broader debates about governance and educational funding. Proponents argue that granting management boards the authority to set tuition would promote greater efficiency and responsiveness in the education system. They believe it will lead to better financial decisions tailored to institutional needs. Conversely, opponents express concerns about accountability and transparency, fearing that local voices might be sidelined in tuition setting, which could adversely affect students and families, particularly those in lower socio-economic brackets.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the balance of power between state governance and local management systems. Critics of SB343 argue that it risks reducing legislative oversight over tuition allocations, which could lead to significant increases in costs for students without proper checks in place. The debate underscores broader themes in educational policy regarding funding, accessibility, and the role of the state versus local governance in higher education.