MI SB0243

Allows ecclesiastical corporations incorporated before January 1, 2012 to organize and operate religious colleges, expanding eligibility to additional counties beyond the original population requirement of 17,500-23,500 residents.

Requires religious colleges to be organized as divisions of ecclesiastical corporations (not separately incorporated) and to offer only postsecondary programs designed to prepare students for clergy or faith-related vocations.

Mandates religious colleges include specific disclaimers on all documents, diplomas, and publications stating the college is not licensed or approved by Michigan and degrees are not guaranteed to be recognized by any organization.

Requires ecclesiastical corporations to submit biennial sworn affidavits certifying compliance with all requirements and to maintain annual surety bonds of $5,000 or $200 per enrolled student (whichever is higher) to protect students if the college closes.

Exempts religious colleges from state licensing and department supervision while allowing them to award associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in religious studies, theology, and biblical studies (excluding liberal arts degrees).