HI SCR178

Requests the Department of Education and Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to convene a working group to evaluate transferring licensure of private trade, vocational, and technical schools from the Department of Education to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.

Requires the working group to consider alternative licensing procedures that protect consumers from false, deceptive, misleading, and unfair practices while ensuring adequate educational quality at these schools.

Directs the working group to include interested stakeholders in discussions and submit findings, recommendations, transfer timeline, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2016 Regular Session.

Cites a 2002 Auditor's report questioning the Department of Education's ability to administer licensure due to lack of post-secondary education expertise and the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs' greater experience in professional licensing and consumer protection.