MS SB2850

Allows private business and vocational schools with national accreditation from U.S. Department of Education-approved agencies to satisfy state licensing requirements by submitting evidence of that accreditation instead of other application materials.

Requires nationally accredited schools to continue paying all state licensure fees and submit audited financial statements if fees are based on gross tuition revenue.

Mandates state licensing agencies approve or deny accreditation-based applications within 60 days; applications are automatically deemed approved if no action is taken within that timeframe.

Applies this national accreditation pathway to cosmetology schools, massage therapy schools, and proprietary business and college registration under the Commission on Proprietary School and College Registration.

Retains state oversight authority regardless of national accreditation status and becomes effective July 1, 2011.