West Virginia House Bill HB2835

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23
• Engrossed: 1/31/23
• Enrolled: 2/6/23
• Passed: 2/20/23
• Chaptered: 5/1/23

Caption

Repeal outdated provisions of code relating to the West Virginia graduate college and Marshall University

Impact

The repeal of §18B-1-8b is expected to simplify the governance of higher education institutions in West Virginia. Eliminating obsolete regulations not only streamlines the operational framework for universities but also aligns state laws with the current status of the institutions involved. This change may foster an environment more conducive to academic innovation and collaboration among educational institutions, especially regarding resource management and academic offerings.

Summary

House Bill 2835 aims to repeal an outdated provision of the West Virginia Code that relates to the merger and consolidation of the West Virginia graduate college with Marshall University. This legislative effort was prompted by the recognition that the existing statute was no longer applicable or relevant in today's educational landscape. By removing this provision, the bill seeks to clear the legal framework surrounding higher education in West Virginia, allowing for more modern governance of universities and colleges in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2835 appeared to be overwhelmingly positive among lawmakers, as evidenced by its unanimous passage with a vote of 33-0 in the Senate. The bill enjoyed bipartisan support, reflecting a shared understanding among legislators of the importance of modernizing the educational statutes to better serve the state's academic institutions and their students. This consensus indicates a collective push towards enhancing the governance of higher education in West Virginia.

Contention

While there were no significant points of contention noted during the discussions or in the voting outcomes, such legislative changes can often spark dialogue regarding the future direction of higher education in West Virginia, especially concerning potential mergers and collaborations between institutions. Continuous assessment of higher education policies remains crucial to ensure they meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.