This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to establish requirements for the significant reduction of operations at State-related universities in Pennsylvania. It introduces a new section, Section 2007-H, which outlines legislative findings emphasizing the importance of maintaining equitable access to higher education, particularly for rural and underprivileged communities. The bill mandates that any proposed consolidation, transfer, closure, or significant reduction of operations, including branch campus closures, must be accompanied by a detailed implementation plan. This plan must include a financial analysis, an economic impact study, a student impact report, and a plan for maintaining higher education access in the affected region.

Furthermore, the bill requires that the proposed implementation plan be distributed to key legislative leaders and made available for public comment for at least 90 days. During this period, the board must consult with various stakeholders and hold public hearings. After considering public feedback, the board must present the plan for approval, which requires a two-thirds majority. If the plan involves significant operational changes, it must be submitted to the General Assembly for approval before implementation can occur. This legislative oversight aims to ensure that any significant changes to State-related universities are conducted transparently and with public input.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1735 (May 21, 2025): P.L.30, No.14