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Bill > SB59
PA SB59
In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.
summary
Introduced
01/22/2025
01/22/2025
In Committee
01/22/2025
01/22/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.
AI Summary
This bill modifies the Public School Code of 1949 to expand the definition and capabilities of community colleges in Pennsylvania. Specifically, the bill allows community colleges to offer four-year programs in addition to their existing two-year programs, which previously were limited to postsecondary education options like college-parallel, terminal-general, and technical education. The bill also updates the State Board of Education's powers to include establishing standards and regulations for these four-year programs, such as curriculum requirements, admission standards, and degree specifications. Additionally, the legislation enables community college boards of trustees to offer baccalaureate degrees in nursing to students who either already have or are currently pursuing an associate's degree in nursing. These changes aim to provide more educational flexibility and advanced degree opportunities within the community college system. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment, giving institutions time to prepare for the expanded program offerings.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (15)
Frank Farry (R)*,
Lisa Baker (R),
Rosemary Brown (R),
Maria Collett (D),
Jay Costa (D),
Cris Dush (R),
Marty Flynn (D),
Wayne Fontana (D),
Art Haywood (D),
Wayne Langerholc (R),
Doug Mastriano (R),
Tracy Pennycuick (R),
Greg Rothman (R),
Steve Santarsiero (D),
Judy Ward (R),
Last Action
Referred to EDUCATION (on 01/22/2025)
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