CT SB00024

Repeals and replaces Section 10a-34 of general statutes effective July 1, 2016, establishing definitions and procedures for licensing and accreditation of higher education institutions and programs by the Office of Higher Education

Establishes an academic review commission composed of 4 higher education representatives and 5 business/industry representatives, appointed by state leadership, to hear appeals of denied applications for licensure or accreditation

Deems applications for program modifications, nonsubstantive changes, licensure, and accreditation automatically approved if they meet academic standards, with approval notification required within 45 days of application receipt

Exempts independent institutions of higher education from Office of Higher Education program approval until July 1, 2018, if they maintain Title IV financial aid eligibility, have a financial responsibility score of at least 1.5, and have been regionally accredited in-state for 10+ years

Requires exempt institutions to file annual reports with the Office of Higher Education listing new programs, discontinued programs, their approval processes, and financial responsibility composite scores