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Minutes for SB354 - Committee on Education
Short Title
Amending the private and out-of-state postsecondary educational institution act clarify the state board of regents' authority and provide additional student protections and institutional accountability.
Minutes Content for Tue, Feb 11, 2020
Chairperson Baumgardner opened the hearing.
Staff gave an overview of the bill.
Crystal Puderbaugh, Director for Academic Affairs, Kansas Board of Regents, explained that this bill would amend several provisions of the Private and out-of-State Postsecondary Education Institution Act and would clarify the board of Regent's authority to regulate these institutions operating in Kansas, strengthen consumer protections, and increase institutional accountability. Under current law, private and out-of-state postsecondary institutions that are subject to the Act may not operate in Kansas unless they obtain a Board-issued certificate of approval. With the significant changes within the industry such as the proliferation of online education and increased volatility in the ownership structure and financial health of these institutions, an increase in the number of postsecondary institutions nationwide have had to close. It is apparent that statutory amendments are necessary to keep pace with these changes and provide the Board with enhanced enforcement mechanisms with which to facilitate compliance with and address violations of the Act. A list of the proposed amendments was given.
The proposed amendments are necessary to clarify and strengthen the Board's authority over these institutions operating in Kansas. Additionally, the proposed amendments strengthen consumer protection for Kansas Students and increase institutional accountability.(Attachment 1)
Written proponent testimony was submitted by Matt Lindsey, President, Kansas Independent College Association.(Attachment 2)
Chairperson Baumgardner closed the hearing on SB354.
