Bill > HB2041

This bill establishes the Open Education Resources Innovation Council as a policy board within the executive branch of state government to identify open education resources (OER), which are teaching, learning, and research materials that are free to use and adapt, such as textbooks, courses, and videos. The Council will recommend policies and funding to increase the use of OER across all levels of education in the Commonwealth, aiming to reduce the cost of educational materials while maintaining or improving learning experiences. The Council will consist of 19 members, including representatives from various educational institutions, legislative members, and state officials, and will advise the Governor and legislative committees on OER policies, recommend the adoption of open-source textbooks, and ensure a review process for digital OER that includes accessibility for students with disabilities. The Council is required to submit an annual report and an executive summary of its activities to the Governor and legislative committees. The provisions of this act are set to expire on July 1, 2018.