AR SB816

Creates the Vision 2025 Legislative Commission on the Future of Higher Education consisting of 24 members including legislative leadership, agency directors, university representatives, and community members appointed by the Governor.

Commission shall study ways higher education can transform and positively impact Arkansas by 2025, including creating a culture of college success, removing barriers to access such as tuition costs and scholarship availability, and identifying research opportunities for economic development.

Chair of the Senate Committee on Education shall call the first meeting within 30 days of the act's effective date; members shall then elect a chair from legislative membership; at least one meeting required every three months in Pulaski County or other state locations.

Commission must submit a progress report by April 30, 2014 and a final report by October 15, 2014 to the Governor, legislative leadership, relevant House and Senate committees, and the public, including recommendations for the General Assembly.

Commission shall cease to exist on January 1, 2017; members serve without compensation but may receive reimbursement; Bureau of Legislative Research shall provide staff support.