DE HB481

Establishes a certificate of approval system requiring postsecondary institutions operating in Delaware to obtain Department of Education approval, with five-year renewal periods and application fees.

Creates comprehensive application requirements including information on ownership, courses offered, instructor qualifications, financial resources, insurance, teach-out plans, and cancellation/refund policies for student protection.

Grants the Department of Education authority to deny or revoke certificates of approval for violations including false advertising, financial inadequacy, unsafe premises, or violations of consumer protection laws.

Requires postsecondary institutions closing operations to provide 45-day notice to the Department and students, maintain student records, develop teach-out plans, and notify students of federal loan discharge options.

Clarifies Delaware Higher Education Office responsibilities focused on student financial assistance and transitions to postsecondary education, and increases criminal penalties for Chapter 85 violations from maximum fines to minimum fines of $500 for individuals and $1,000 for entities.