Bill > HB1473

This bill amends the Public School Code to establish a new requirement for State-related universities (Penn State, Pitt, Temple, and Lincoln University) seeking to close a campus. Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, universities must submit an alternative education plan to the state Department of Education before closing any campus. The plan must outline how students in the affected region will continue to have access to higher education, which could include creating partnerships with other public educational institutions, establishing satellite classroom programs, or offering tuition assistance for students who must travel to continue their education. The department will review these plans and has the authority to approve or disapprove them. If a plan is disapproved, the university can resubmit a revised plan within 30 days. Critically, if a university fails to submit an acceptable plan or does not submit a plan at all, it may forfeit its annual state appropriation. The legislation stems from a recognition that publicly funded universities have a responsibility to maintain educational opportunities, particularly in rural and underprivileged areas, and that campus closures without alternative arrangements would be an inappropriate use of taxpayer dollars.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1473