Substitute House Bill No. 6445, also known as Public Act No. 25-99, seeks to enhance dual credit opportunities and improve college readiness and remedial support programs in Connecticut's higher education system. The bill introduces new definitions for "Connecticut institution of higher education" and "out-of-state institution of higher education," while repealing and replacing existing statutes related to distance learning programs. This new framework allows both in-state and out-of-state institutions to apply for authorization to operate distance learning programs, emphasizing uniform standards and a graduated fee schedule based on student enrollment. Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for private career schools, specifying conditions for certificate denial and mandating compliance with fire and zoning regulations, as well as financial guarantees. Key amendments include stipulating that no certificate to operate a private career school shall be renewed if the school has not enrolled students for two consecutive years, and extending the duration for certificate authorization from sixty to ninety days for good cause. The bill also requires the Office of Higher Education to conduct focused or on-site reviews of program applications, particularly in fields requiring licensure, and mandates that all institutions offering concurrent enrollment courses obtain accreditation by July 1, 2028. Furthermore, it establishes a database of credentials to provide standardized information about educational offerings in the state, while repealing the requirement for ongoing transitional college readiness programs beyond the 2025 academic year.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
HED Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 156:
Public Act No. 25-99: 10-221x, 10-221w