As representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we have a responsibility to ensure that our state's educational institutions uphold their founding missions and operate with transparency in decisions that affect Pennsylvania's citizens.

Penn State University's identity as Pennsylvania's land-grant institution carries with it not just historical significance but ongoing obligations to the people of this Commonwealth. For over 160 years, Penn State has fulfilled its mission by establishing a network of commonwealth campuses that have become vital educational and economic anchors in communities across Pennsylvania.

The recent announcement that 12 commonwealth campuses are under consideration for closure represents a fundamental shift in Penn State's approach to fulfilling its land-grant mission. While we recognize that all institutions must adapt to changing circumstances, decisions of this magnitude must be made with full transparency and with careful consideration of their far-reaching impacts.

The commonwealth campus system has successfully democratized access to higher education, particularly for rural, first-generation, and non-traditional students. These campuses provide affordable pathways to degrees, contribute significantly to local economies, and serve as centers for community engagement and development.

My resolution calls for a process that honors the university's obligations to the Commonwealth by:

1. Ensuring all stakeholders have access to the data and criteria being used to evaluate campus viability.
2. Providing meaningful opportunities for affected communities to participate in the decision-making process.
3. Demonstrating how educational access will be maintained for communities losing a physical campus.
4. Developing transition plans that minimize harm to students, employees, and local economies.

Penn State's land-grant status represents a covenant between the university and the people of Pennsylvania. My resolution affirms that the Pennsylvania House of Representatives stands ready to engage constructively with Penn State leadership to ensure that any restructuring honors this covenant and serves the best interests of all Pennsylvanians.

Please consider cosponsoring this resolution.