Utah 2024 Regular Session

Utah Senate Bill SB0192

Introduced
2/5/24  
Refer
2/5/24  
Report Pass
2/13/24  
Engrossed
2/21/24  
Refer
2/22/24  
Report Pass
2/26/24  
Enrolled
3/11/24  

Caption

Higher Education Amendments

Impact

If enacted, SB 0192 would revise existing statutes that govern education funding and institutional accountability. Specifically, the bill would introduce new frameworks for allocating state funds to higher education institutions, emphasizing transparency and performance-based metrics. This could result in a more equitable distribution of resources, ensuring institutions serving low-income and first-generation students receive adequate funding. However, there are concerns regarding how these changes might affect smaller colleges and universities that may struggle to meet performance benchmarks set by the new criteria.

Summary

Senate Bill 0192, the Higher Education Amendments, proposes significant changes to the funding and governance structures of institutions of higher education. It aims to enhance funding allocations and ensure that educational institutions have the necessary resources to meet the diverse needs of students. Supporters of the bill argue that these amendments will lead to better educational outcomes and increased access to quality education for all students, particularly those from underserved communities. The bill has garnered widespread support from various educational organizations and institutions, which believe it is a step towards more equitable education policy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 0192 has been predominantly positive amongst educational advocates and institutions. They view the amendments as a necessary evolution in the state’s approach to supporting higher education. However, there are undercurrents of caution among some legislators who worry that the proposed funding mechanisms could inadvertently favor larger, well-resourced institutions over smaller ones. The dialogue in the legislature has reflected a general acknowledgement of the need for reform in higher education funding while striving to maintain a balance that supports all institutions regardless of their size or financial stability.

Contention

Notable points of contention include potential disparities in how funding is allocated and the emphasis on performance metrics, which some fear could lead to the marginalization of institutions that may not have the same resources or student success rates. Furthermore, discussions have highlighted concerns over the adequacy of oversight mechanisms to ensure that the intended benefits of the bill are fully realized. This debate reflects broader tensions within higher education policy regarding access, equity, and institutional accountability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

UT SB0194

Higher Education Funding Amendments

UT HB0102

Higher Education Residency Amendments

UT SB0146

Higher Education Governance Amendments

UT HB0197

Higher Education Financial Aid Amendments

UT SB0145

Higher Education for Incarcerated Youth Program Amendments

UT HB0203

Inmate Education Amendments

UT HB0334

Health Education Amendments

UT SB0166

Education Entity Amendments

UT HB0249

Education Related Amendments

UT HB0508

Education Funding Amendments

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.