Bill > AB582

This bill establishes a Council on Dual Enrollment within the department of workforce development, composed of representatives from the University of Wisconsin System, technical colleges, public instruction, independent colleges, and legislative leadership, to study and recommend ways to improve access to and transferability of college credits earned by high school students through dual enrollment programs. It mandates that by September 1, 2026, all credits for core general education courses, including those earned by high school students through dual enrollment programs, must be transferable between University of Wisconsin institutions and satisfy general education requirements at the receiving institution, and by the 2027-28 academic year, similar transferability agreements will be required for private colleges and tribally controlled colleges. The bill also adjusts deadlines for students to notify their school districts of their intent to participate in dual enrollment programs, allows students to begin dual enrollment programs in the 8th grade, and requires school districts to pay for tuition, fees, and books for courses taken for high school credit through dual enrollment, with some exceptions. Furthermore, it mandates the creation of a state-maintained online portal and printed brochures to inform students and families about dual enrollment opportunities.