Virginia Senate Bill SB1098

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23

Caption

Higher educational institutions, public; new programs of instruction, approval of the SCHEV, etc.

Impact

The introduction of SB1098 reflects a significant shift in the oversight of educational programs within Virginia's public institutions. By necessitating approval from designated committees, the state aims to standardize the quality and relevance of academic programs offered. This additional layer of oversight may help align educational offerings with workforce needs and state educational goals, thereby enhancing the overall quality of higher education in Virginia. However, the bill may also introduce bureaucratic delays in the implementation of new programs, potentially hindering the responsiveness of institutions to emerging educational trends.

Summary

SB1098 was introduced to amend the Code of Virginia, specifically by adding a new section concerning the implementation and approval of programs of instruction at public institutions of higher education. The essence of the bill is to require that no public higher education institution in Virginia may implement a new degree program or alter an existing curriculum without prior approval from specific educational committees, which include the Council on Higher Education, the House Committee on Education, and the Senate Committee on Education and Health. This regulatory oversight aims to ensure that all new educational offerings meet defined standards and receive appropriate scrutiny before being made available to students.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding SB1098, primarily related to governance and institutional autonomy. Proponents of the bill may argue that such oversight encourages accountability and quality assurance in higher education. In contrast, critics might express concern that requiring state-level approval for new programs could stifle innovation and hinder the ability of institutions to adapt quickly to the changing needs of the education landscape. Additionally, there may be apprehension regarding the workload placed on the educational committees to evaluate and approve an increasing number of proposals, which could lead to delays and frustrations within institutions.