Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB467

Introduced
3/16/23  

Caption

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of academic fraud.

Impact

If enacted, HB 467 would significantly impact state laws relating to education and fraud. It would create a legal framework within which cases of academic fraud can be prosecuted, thus providing law enforcement with the tools needed to address such fraudulent activities. This legislative move is expected to improve the overall trust in educational institutions and ensure that students receive legitimate credentials reflecting their true academic achievements.

Summary

House Bill 467 addresses the issue of academic fraud by specifically defining and establishing the offense of academic fraud within the context of forgery and fraudulent practices. The bill aims to enhance the integrity of educational institutions by criminalizing actions that would undermine the legitimacy of academic credentials and qualifications. By formally categorizing academic fraud as a punishable offense, the legislation seeks to deter individuals from engaging in deceptive practices that could compromise the quality of education and the value of degrees awarded.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 467 appears to be generally positive, with support coming from various stakeholders who advocate for integrity in education. Proponents view the bill as a necessary measure to combat rising concerns over academic dishonesty and to safeguard the value of academic qualifications. However, there may be some dissent regarding aspects of the bill's implementation and the potential for its misuse in targeting individuals who might be caught in ambiguous situations regarding academic assessments.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the definitions presented in the bill and the consequences for those found guilty of academic fraud. Critics may argue that the legislation could disproportionately affect certain groups of individuals or lead to overly punitive measures for actions that might not warrant severe penalties. The framing of academic fraud and the specific language used in the bill may become focal points in discussions, particularly about the balance between maintaining educational integrity and ensuring fairness in enforcement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB649

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of digital forgery.

PA HB387

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of benefit transfer device fraud.

PA HB621

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of benefit transfer device fraud.

PA HB1373

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of unauthorized dissemination of artificially generated impersonation of individual.

PA HB431

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of unauthorized dissemination of artificially generated impersonation of individual.

PA SB1045

In forgery and fraudulent practices, providing for the offense of unauthorized dissemination of artificially generated impersonation of individual.

PA HB1450

False or fraudulent deeds and affidavits.

PA A5776

Provides students enrolled in certain career programs with consumer protections from fraudulent and misleading claims and practices.

PA A1807

Provides students enrolled in certain career programs with consumer protections from fraudulent and misleading claims and practices.

PA SB109

Relating to the criminal offense of fraudulent securing of document execution.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.