This bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to postsecondary education institutions, specifically focusing on the standards for operation and the requirements for distance education programs. Key amendments include the definition of "accredited" as approval by a recognized accrediting body, the introduction of "distance education," and the establishment of "physical presence" criteria for institutions operating in the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that postsecondary educational institutions offering distance education must be members of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) and comply with its standards, policies, and fees. Institutions that do not meet the composite score requirements for NC-SARA membership may be exempt if they qualify for federal financial aid and maintain a satisfactory financial responsibility score.

The bill also repeals a previous section regarding the authorization of postsecondary educational institutions not operating in the state and introduces new compliance measures, including penalties for violations of the established standards. Institutions must notify the North Dakota University System of any changes in accreditation status or ownership, and there are provisions for appealing decisions made by the board regarding authorization to operate. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for postsecondary education in North Dakota, ensuring that institutions meet specific quality and operational standards while facilitating distance education.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, 15-18.1-10, 15-18.1-13, 15-18.1-03
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Heinert: 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, 15-18.1-10, 15-18.1-13, 15-18.1-03
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, 15-18.1-10, 15-18.1-13, 15-18.1-03
Enrollment: 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, 15-18.1-10, 15-18.1-13, 15-18.1-03
INTRODUCED: 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, 15-18.1-10, 15-18.1-13, 15-18.1-03