Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB557

Introduced

3/20/23

Refer

3/20/23

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for State Board of Private Academic Schools, for powers and duties of board, for application for license, for issuance and renewal of license, for directory of private academic schools, for requirements for licensure and operation, for enforcement, refusal, suspension or revocation of license and for promulgation of rules and regulations.

Impact

The changes proposed by HB 557 could significantly alter the landscape of private education in Pennsylvania. By reestablishing the framework for licensure and oversight, it aims to ensure that private academic institutions adhere to consistent standards, which proponents argue could improve the quality of education provided. The bill outlines the necessity of inspections and information sharing with the board, ensuring that schools maintain compliance with state educational regulations. This is particularly crucial for online schools, which are becoming increasingly prominent in the educational sector.

Summary

House Bill 557 aims to amend the Private Academic Schools Act, originally enacted in 1988, to update various definitions and provisions regarding the regulation and licensing of private academic schools within Pennsylvania. The bill seeks to clarify the powers and duties of the State Board of Private Academic Schools, streamline the application process for school licenses, and establish necessary enforcement mechanisms. Key aspects include regulatory updates on both traditional and online schools, reflective of evolving educational structures and technologies.

Sentiment

While the bill appears to have been received positively in initial discussions, highlighting the need for oversight in education, there are concerns regarding potential bureaucratic hurdles that private schools might face in terms of compliance. Supporters of the bill argue it will enhance the accountability and integrity of private educational institutions, whereas opponents might see it as an imposition that could hinder flexibility and growth within the private academic sector. The overall sentiment seems to favor regulation but recognizes the need to balance oversight with the operational freedom of private schools.

Contention

A notable point of contention in the legislative discussions revolves around the extent of regulatory authority granted to the State Board. Critics argue that increased oversight could stifle innovation and adaptability among private academic institutions, especially online schools, which may require distinct guidance and flexibility. Additionally, there are concerns about the impact on smaller private schools that may struggle to meet the extensive requirements outlined for licensure. Legislators will need to navigate these concerns carefully to ensure that the bill supports educational quality without imposing excessive restrictions.

Latest PA HB557 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB557

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1197

PA SB922

Further providing for application for license, for issuance and renewal of license and for promulgation of rules and regulations.

PA HB2413

In short title and definitions, further providing for definitions; in licenses, tags and kennels, further providing for kennels, for requirements for kennels, for revocation or refusal of kennel licenses and for health certificates for importation; and, in enforcement and penalties, further providing for rules and regulations.

PA HB2354

PA HB1000

Further providing for definitions, for State Board of Psychology and for powers of the board; providing for prescription certificate, for prescribing and administrative practices and for controlled substances; and further providing for refusal, suspension or revocation of license, for reporting of multiple licensure and for penalties and injunctions against unlawful practice.

PA AB2138

Licensing boards: denial of application: revocation or suspension of licensure: criminal conviction.

PA SB1241

In insurance producers, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of department, for license prerequisites, for licensing and for license renewals.

PA HB1564

Further providing for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restrictions on use of title "Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist" and for restrictions on the use of title "Licensed Associate Professional Counselor"; further providing for license renewal and records and fees and for unlawful practice; and providing for effect of associate licensure.

PA SB1019

PA SB786

Further providing for legislative intent, for definitions, for license required, for State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, for powers and functions of board, for qualifications for license, for procedures for licensing, for exemption from licensure examination, for reciprocity, for endorsement of out-of-State licenses and for reinstatement of license; providing for restriction on use of title "licensed professional art therapist" and related titles; and further providing for penalties, for license renewal, records and fees and for unlawful practice.