Bill > AB934

This bill aims to improve student success and degree completion in California Community Colleges by implementing two key provisions. First, starting in the 2026-27 academic year, community colleges will be required to identify and notify students who have already completed or are very close to completing degree or certificate requirements during the previous five academic years. Students will have the option to receive their degree or certificate or opt out. This includes students who have fully completed their requirements, those needing 12 semester units or less to finish, and those who have completed general education transfer requirements. Second, beginning in September 2026, community colleges must annually identify new and returning students without a Comprehensive Education Plan (CEP) and ensure they receive one before the end of their first academic year. The bill recognizes the importance of higher education for workforce development, noting that by 2031, approximately 72 percent of jobs will require post-secondary education, and obtaining a community college certificate or degree can increase an individual's wages by $5,000 to $11,100. The legislation also acknowledges the need to support students, particularly those from traditionally underrepresented groups, in achieving their educational goals. If the Commission on State Mandates determines the bill imposes additional costs on local agencies, the state will provide reimbursement.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB934