CS/HB 1053 Summary

• Requires independent postsecondary institutions to disclose all student fees and costs to prospective students in writing at least 1 week before enrollment.

• Creates annual accountability reporting requirement with Commission preparing report by March 15 containing graduation rates, retention rates, and placement rates for all licensed institutions.

• Establishes "high performing" institution designation for those meeting benchmarks equal to or higher than average rates of Florida universities, colleges, or career centers.

• Authorizes commission to prohibit enrollment of new students or limit program enrollment at institutions based on performance; requires administrative fines up to $1,000 for institutions failing to submit required data by November 30 deadline.

• Creates Closed Institution Panel by October 1, 2016 to manage institutional closures and assist students; requires institutions to post surety bonds or financial security; changes criminal penalty for unlawful closure to misdemeanor of second degree.

• Requires continuing education training for administrators and faculty on state and federal laws; commission must verify completion by July 1, 2017 and annually thereafter.