Bill > H4734

This bill requires all public higher education institutions in South Carolina to formally adopt and comply with the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education, proposed by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Within 90 days of the compact's issuance, renewal, or amendment, each institution must pass a resolution acknowledging potential benefits, committing to full compliance, and directing implementation of required policies. Institutions must integrate compact requirements into their policies, maintain compliance documentation, and submit annual reports to the Commission on Higher Education, which will then compile a statewide report for state leadership. If an institution fails to comply, the Commission can issue a notice of noncompliance and, if not remedied within 30 days, recommend withholding up to 5% of the institution's state funding until compliance is achieved. The bill aims to strengthen institutional performance, expand access to federal programs, and ensure consistency and accountability across South Carolina's public higher education system, with the understanding that institutions will not be required to violate state or federal law. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4734&session=126&summary=B