PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB256

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB256

Introduced
1/31/23  

Caption

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

Impact

The proposed legislation will have a significant impact on state educational laws by refining the framework under which community colleges operate. By clarifying the powers and duties assigned to the State Board of Education, the bill is expected to enhance oversight and ensure that community colleges maintain high academic standards. This could potentially lead to an increase in the quality of education provided by these institutions, which play a crucial role in workforce development and higher education accessibility.

Summary

SB256 aims to establish clearer definitions regarding the powers and responsibilities of the State Board of Education in relation to community colleges. This includes definitions around the educational standards and the types of degrees that can be conferred by these institutions. The bill advocates for improved governance in community colleges, ensuring that they align with state educational policies while also addressing the unique requirements of these institutions to better serve students and their communities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB256 seems generally favorable among stakeholders invested in community college education and governance. Supporters argue that the bill will streamline processes and improve accountability within community colleges, thus better serving the needs of students. However, some concerns have been raised about potential overreach by the State Board of Education, questioning whether increased oversight might limit the autonomy of individual community colleges in addressing local educational needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB256 include concerns about the balance of power between state oversight and local autonomy of community colleges. Critics argue that while clarity in governance is important, there is a risk that excessive regulation could undermine the ability of colleges to cater to the specific demands of their local environments. The discourse reflects a broader debate on how best to govern educational institutions while ensuring they remain responsive and flexible to the communities they serve.

Latest PA SB256 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session SB256

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB90

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

PA HB794

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

PA SB59

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

PA SB1041

In community colleges, further providing for definitions.

PA SB951

In community colleges, further providing for definitions and for financial program and reimbursement of payments.

PA HB1654

In duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens; in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence, for definitions and for when provided; and providing for full-day kindergarten.

PA HB79

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and for powers and duties of councils of trustees.

PA HB2398

In transfers of credits between institutions of higher education, further providing for definitions and for duties of public institutions of higher education, providing for guaranteed admission, for reports to General Assembly and for dispute resolution and further providing for Transfer and Articulation Oversight Committee, for duties of department and for applicability; in higher education accountability and transparency, further providing for definitions and providing for student fee transparency; and providing for institutions of higher education and Dual Credit Innovation and Equity Grant Program.

PA HB345

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and for powers and duties of councils of trustees.

PA HB829

In duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens; in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence, for definitions and for when provided; and, in early learning programs, providing for full-day kindergarten.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.