Raised Bill No. 5362, introduced in the February Session, 2024, aims to define "Connecticut institution of higher education" and "Out-of-state institution of higher education" for the purposes of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). The bill substitutes the existing Section 10a-57f of the general statutes with new provisions effective July 1, 2024. A "Connecticut institution of higher education" is defined as an institution with a campus located in the state and subject to authorization by the Office of Higher Education or a constituent unit of the state system of higher education. An "Out-of-state institution of higher education" is defined as any institution that does not meet the criteria of a Connecticut institution.

The bill also revises the process for Connecticut institutions to participate in SARA, which establishes uniform standards for distance learning programs and eliminates the need for individual state assessment of out-of-state distance learning programs. Connecticut institutions must apply to the Office of Higher Education to participate in SARA, with authorization valid for one year and renewable annually. The bill sets a fee schedule based on the number of full-time equivalent students. Out-of-state institutions not participating in SARA but seeking to operate distance learning programs in Connecticut must also apply, adhere to similar standards, and pay fees based on enrollment. The bill clarifies that these provisions do not affect the Attorney General's enforcement authority related to consumer protection laws. The purpose of the bill is to clarify the distinction between in-state and out-of-state institutions concerning SARA.

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