HB 1079 Summary

• Creates a new "provisional authorization" framework allowing degree-granting institutions that have applied for accreditation to operate for up to five years (extendable to ten years for good cause) while pursuing accreditation from a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.

• Requires candidates for accreditation to submit an accreditation plan identifying their target accrediting agency, provide additional documentation as deemed necessary by the director, and file a $50,000 surety bond to protect students from tuition loss.

• Mandates written notification to students prior to enrollment that program approval is contingent on the institution obtaining accreditation, with signed acknowledgment required in student records.

• Imposes automatic suspension of provisional authorization if the institution fails to obtain accreditation within the required timeframe, with revocation within 60 days of suspension resulting in forfeiture of all fees and requiring refunds for incomplete coursework.

• Requires annual $5,000 fees and public disclosure in catalogs, websites, and brochures that approval is contingent upon subsequent accreditation; effective July 1, 2017.