Tennessee Senate Bill SB0861

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 9; Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to higher education.

Impact

The bill's implementation may significantly enhance the oversight and evaluation of higher education institutions in Tennessee, as it obligates universities to provide detailed insights into their research activities. This could potentially influence state funding decisions and policy-making related to higher education by ensuring that institutions are actively reporting on their initiatives and outcomes. The requirement for an electronic report streamlines the process of communication between universities and legislative bodies, emphasizing efficient data management and access.

Summary

SB0861 aims to amend various titles within the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning higher education. Specifically, it mandates that Tennessee State University and Middle Tennessee State University submit a detailed report regarding their research and methods developed under Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 68-211-806. The report is to be delivered in electronic format and submitted to the chairs of both the education committee of the Senate and the education administration committee of the House of Representatives by February 1, 2024. This suggests a focus on transparency and accountability in educational research activities within the state.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, potential points of contention could arise regarding the appropriateness of Congressional oversight over higher education research activities. Stakeholders in academia may argue that such mandated reporting might constrain institutional autonomy and might require resources that could be better directed towards educational initiatives. Furthermore, there may be discussions around how the information provided will be utilized and the implications it has for the universities' operational strategies.