Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HR167

Introduced
6/27/23  

Caption

Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study on board member selection for the Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education and the Board of Trustees of each State-related institution of higher education.

Impact

If enacted, HR167 could have significant implications for state laws regarding higher education governance. By initiating a study focused specifically on board member selection, the bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and merit in the appointment processes. This could potentially lead to legislative changes aimed at ensuring that the governance structures of higher educational institutions are reflective of best practices in oversight and decision-making, thus impacting how these institutions are managed statewide.

Summary

HR167 directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on the selection process for board members of the Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education and the Board of Trustees of each State-related institution of higher education. This bill aims to review and evaluate the current methods of appointing or electing board members to enhance governance and oversight within higher education institutions in the state. The findings of this study could lead to recommendations for improving the effectiveness and accountability of boards governing higher education institutions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR167 appears to be generally supportive among stakeholders in higher education. Advocates for greater transparency and accountability, including some education policymakers and institutions, view the bill as a positive step toward strengthening the governance of higher education. However, there may be concerns raised by individuals who fear that such studies could lead to increased bureaucracy or changes that may not align with the specific needs of individual institutions.

Contention

While there is broad support for the intent of HR167, some points of contention may arise regarding the findings of the proposed study and the subsequent recommendations that it might produce. Concerns might be voiced about the potential for increased state control or the imposition of one-size-fits-all governance models that do not cater to the unique missions of diverse institutions. Opponents may argue for the preservation of institutional autonomy when it comes to governance structures, which might lead to debates on the balance between state oversight and institutional independence.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1467

Higher educational institutions, baccalaureate public; membership of governing boards.

PA SB00997

An Act Concerning Students And Faculty Members Of The Board Of Trustees Of The University Of Connecticut And The Board Of Regents For Higher Education.

PA HB06355

An Act Increasing The Number Of Student Members On The Board Of Trustees Of The University Of Connecticut And The Board Of Regents For Higher Education.

PA HB05114

An Act Requiring Training For The Members Of The Governing Boards Of The Institutions Of Higher Education In The State.

PA SB1410

Higher educational institutions, public; duties of governing boards.

PA HB1168

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for Board of Governors.

PA HB938

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for Board of Governors.

PA SB506

Higher educational institutions, public; duties and powers of governing board.

PA SB204

The membership of the Higher Educational Aids Board.

PA SB01297

An Act Concerning Minor Revisions To The Higher Education Statutes Concerning The Establishment Of The Connecticut State Community College And The Board Of Regents For Higher Education.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.