Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB770

Introduced
2/25/25  

Caption

In higher education accountability and transparency, providing for notice of tuition increase.

Impact

The implementation of HB 770 is expected to significantly alter the relationship between Pennsylvania higher education institutions and their students. By requiring advance notice of tuition increases, the bill promotes greater transparency, allowing students to make more informed financial decisions regarding their education. This move could empower students and families by giving them adequate time to prepare for and respond to potential increases in their financial obligations.

Summary

House Bill 770, introduced on February 25, 2025, aims to enhance accountability and transparency in higher education institutions in Pennsylvania by mandating that any tuition increase must be communicated to all enrolled students. Specifically, the bill requires institutions to provide notice electronically and by mail at least 45 days before any tuition increase takes effect. This includes detailing the previous tuition amount, the current amount, and the specifics of the increase in both dollar and percentage terms.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 770 appear to be generally positive, with support for the notion that tuition increases should be communicated clearly and well in advance. Proponents argue that such transparency is essential for student rights and could lead to institutions being more considerate in their pricing strategies. However, there may also be concerns regarding how institutions will manage their budgeting and financial planning while adhering to the mandates of the bill.

Contention

While the bill received favorable feedback from advocacy groups focusing on student rights and educational affordability, some stakeholders may contend that it could place additional administrative burdens on institutions. Critics might argue that the constraints around tuition increase notification could restrict the flexibility colleges and universities need to respond to fluctuating operational costs. Overall, the discourse surrounding HB 770 highlights a broader debate about how best to balance institutional financial stability with the need for student financial awareness.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB2152

In higher education accountability and transparency, further providing for comparison tool.

PA HB2398

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.

PA HB2519

In higher education accountability and transparency, further providing for comparison tool.

PA HB264

In the State System of Higher Education, providing for free tuition for school board members.

PA SB1248

Providing for institutions of higher education.

PA HB1579

Providing for Commonwealth grant accountability and transparency.

PA HB1886

Providing for the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program; prescribing powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; providing for scholarships for tuition and fees, scholarships for room and board and aid for adult reeducation; and establishing the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program Fund.

PA SB1154

Providing for institutions of higher education and for Performance-based Funding Council.

PA SB1150

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and providing for Grow Pennsylvania Merit Scholarship Program; providing for institutions of higher education, for Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program and for intercollegiate athletics; in ready-to-succeed scholarship, further providing for agency; and making a repeal.

PA HB2572

In certification of teachers, providing for tuition assistance for inactive educators.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.