The proposed bill would significantly update the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding private postsecondary education institutions by introducing a new out-of-state registration process for institutions not based in Arizona. This process requires these institutions to apply to the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education, providing evidence of legal authorization, accreditation status, financial protections for Arizona students, and various financial statements. The registration would be valid for one year and subject to annual renewal, with specific reporting requirements for any changes in accreditation or financial status.

Additionally, the bill would eliminate current exemptions for institutions from paying Student Tuition Recovery Fund assessments for distance learning students and redefine "operate" to encompass both maintaining a physical presence in Arizona and providing online education to residents, regardless of participation in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NCSARA). It would also remove the definition of "distance learning instruction" and make various technical adjustments to existing statutes. Overall, these changes aim to enhance regulatory oversight and consumer protection for Arizona students attending private postsecondary institutions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 32-3001, 32-3021, 32-3022, 32-3024, 32-3071, 32-3072, 32-3075, 15-101, 32-3023, 41-1750, 32-1606, 30-3024