The Substitute Senate Bill No. 1297 proposes significant revisions to the governance and operational structure of higher education in Connecticut, particularly focusing on the establishment of the Connecticut State Community College and the Board of Regents for Higher Education. The bill replaces references to "regional community-technical colleges" with "Connecticut State Community College" throughout various statutes, reflecting a rebranding and consolidation of the community college system. It also replaces the "Board of Trustees" with the "Board of Regents for Higher Education," which will now oversee the Connecticut State Community College, the Connecticut State University System, and Charter Oak State College. Key provisions include the establishment of student and faculty advisory committees, the introduction of a Connecticut nursing incentive program, and the requirement for the Board of Regents to report on financial management and operational efficiency.

Additionally, the bill introduces new funding mechanisms, such as a permanent Endowment Fund for the Connecticut State Community College, aimed at encouraging private donations and supporting endowed professorships and scholarships. It also outlines the criteria for tuition waivers for veterans and other specific groups, ensuring financial support for students in need. The bill mandates that the Board of Regents coordinate programs and services across campuses, develop mission statements that reflect community needs, and submit annual reports on expenditures and performance metrics. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline governance, enhance educational opportunities, and improve the financial management of higher education institutions in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 3-27a, 4-29, 4-124z, 4-124gg, 5-177, 5-199d, 10-98b, 10-155, 10-264n, 29-251b, 29-298a, 32-6j, 32-70d, 48-9
HED Joint Favorable Substitute: 3-27a, 4-29, 4-124z, 4-124gg, 5-177, 5-199d, 10-98b, 10-155, 10-264n, 29-251b, 29-298a, 32-6j, 32-70d, 48-9
File No. 376: 3-27a, 4-29, 4-124z, 4-124gg, 5-177, 5-199d, 10-98b, 10-155, 10-264n, 29-251b, 29-298a, 32-6j, 32-70d, 48-9