Raised Bill No. 1297 proposes comprehensive amendments to Connecticut's higher education statutes, primarily focusing on the rebranding and restructuring of community-technical colleges into the "Connecticut State Community College." The bill replaces references to "regional community-technical colleges" with "Connecticut State Community College" throughout various sections, ensuring consistency in terminology. It also transitions governance from the "Board of Trustees" to the "Board of Regents for Higher Education," which will oversee the Connecticut State University System and the Connecticut State Community College. Key provisions include the establishment of a debt-free community college program, the creation of industry advisory committees, and the introduction of a Connecticut nursing incentive program to enhance educational opportunities and workforce readiness.

Additionally, the bill outlines new financial management protocols, such as mandating that all tuition revenue be deposited into designated operating funds and establishing specific tuition waivers for veterans and other eligible groups. It emphasizes the importance of accountability by requiring annual reports on expenditures and program outcomes. The bill also introduces provisions for the establishment of community enterprise zone boards and modifies the governance structure of various advisory councils. Overall, Raised Bill No. 1297 aims to modernize and streamline the governance, funding, and operational frameworks of higher education institutions in Connecticut, ensuring they are better aligned with current educational needs and workforce demands.

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