Pennsylvania House Bill HB2398

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/10/24
• Refer: 6/10/24
• Refer: 6/26/24
• Report Pass: 6/28/24
• Refer: 6/28/24

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2398 would significantly alter the landscape of higher education in Pennsylvania. It establishes a system where community college graduates can achieve guaranteed admission to parallel bachelor's degree programs at public universities, promoting a smoother educational pathway. The performance-based funding formulas developed under this bill would encourage universities to meet specific performance metrics tied to student success, thereby potentially influencing institutional priorities and resource allocation. Moreover, the emphasis on dual credit courses could serve to increase college readiness among high school students.

Summary

House Bill 2398 aims to enhance the transfer process between institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania by ensuring guaranteed admission for students transferring with an associate degree, alongside greater accountability and transparency regarding student fees. The bill proposes a framework for performance-based funding formulas that would distribute state funds to public higher education institutions in alignment with their respective performance outcomes. Additionally, the legislation emphasizes the importance of dual credit courses and support for students transitioning from high school to postsecondary education.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 2398 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for higher education access and reform. Proponents view the bill as a critical step towards improving educational pathways for students and promoting greater accountability within higher education institutions. However, there may also be concerns from some lawmakers about the implementation of a performance-based funding model, as well as apprehension regarding any additional regulations placed on these institutions.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB 2398 may include discussions about the sufficiency of funding that would accompany the performance-based metrics and the potential implications for institutions that may struggle to meet these new standards. Critics could argue that the focus on performance outcomes might divert attention from important qualitative aspects of education, such as student support services. Additionally, there may be debates about how the changing dynamics of fee transparency could affect student access and affordability.