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," and establishes a framework for multistate reciprocity agreements that allow out-of-state institutions to offer distance learning programs in Connecticut without state authorization, provided they meet uniform standards. Additionally, it modifies the authorization requirements for private career schools, stipulating that no certificate will be granted if the applicant has a history of misconduct or fails to meet financial and operational standards. The bill also mandates compliance with local fire and zoning regulations and requires an irrevocable letter of credit for financial accountability. Key amendments include the stipulation that no certificate to operate a private career school shall be renewed if the school has not enrolled students for the previous two years, and the renewal period for certificates of authorization is changed 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 for licensure fields and mandates that all institutions offering concurrent enrollment courses obtain accreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships by July 1, 2028. Furthermore, it establishes a database of credentials to be created by January 1, 2023, and repeals the requirement for ongoing transitional college readiness programs beyond the 2025 academic year, reflecting a comprehensive update to the state's higher education regulations.

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