This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing three new sections that focus on the accountability of higher education funding. Specifically, it mandates the Higher Education Policy Council to adopt rules that prohibit the allocation or expenditure of state funds for low-earning degree programs. The bill outlines that these restrictions will apply to various categories of higher education funding, including individual student financial aid, operational funding, appropriated aid or grants, and capital funding. Additionally, the Council is required to annually review federal determinations of low-earning programs and report to the legislature on the programs affected by these prohibitions, their enforcement, and the estimated fiscal impact.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that local political subdivisions are also prohibited from using public funds for low-earning degree programs as defined by the new regulations. The act is set to take effect upon its passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively in higher education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-1D-13, 18B-1D-14, 18B-1D-15