California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB790

Introduced
 
Introduced
2/21/25  
Refer
3/12/25  
Refer
4/10/25  
Report Pass
4/21/25  
Refer
4/21/25  
Report Pass
4/21/25  
Report Pass
5/5/25  
Refer
4/21/25  
Refer
5/6/25  
Report Pass
5/5/25  
Report Pass
5/5/25  
Refer
5/6/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Engrossed
6/2/25  
Refer
5/6/25  
Report Pass
5/23/25  
Refer
6/9/25  
Engrossed
6/2/25  
Refer
6/9/25  
Report Pass
6/25/25  
Report Pass
6/25/25  
Refer
6/26/25  
Refer
6/26/25  
Report Pass
7/8/25  

Caption

An act to amend Sections 94801.5, 94850.5, and 94897 of, and to add Chapter 11.1 (commencing with Section 66910) to Part 40 of Division 5 of Title 3 of, the Education Code, relating to postsecondary education.

Impact

The proposed legislation has significant implications for how distance education is regulated in California. If enacted, it would extend the regulatory framework provided by the California Private Postsecondary Education Act to include out-of-state institutions that do not have a physical presence in California. This means that such entities must comply with California's student protections and regulatory requirements, thus creating a more uniform standard for distance education programs within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 790, introduced by Senator Cabaldon, aims to amend existing laws related to postsecondary education in California, specifically addressing the operation of out-of-state educational institutions offering distance education to California students. The bill authorizes the Governor to enter into interstate reciprocity agreements by January 1, 2028, allowing institutions outside California to operate within the state under a structured agreement. It requires designated state agencies to oversee these agreements and ensures that institutions comply with state education standards, thereby enhancing regulatory oversight.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB 790 appears to be positive, with supporters emphasizing the potential for increased access to quality education from established institutions outside California. They argue that this could provide more educational options for students, particularly in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. However, there are some concerns regarding the enforceability of regulations and whether the bill sufficiently protects California students from potentially subpar educational offerings.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the mechanics of the interstate agreements and the extent to which California can enforce its educational standards on out-of-state institutions. Opponents may argue that while the bill aims at increasing access to education, it could inadvertently lower the quality and rigorousness of educational standards if not carefully regulated. Additionally, the impact on existing California institutions and their competitive edge is a concern that could lead to further debates in the legislative discussions surrounding the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB226

An act to add Article 6 (commencing with Section 74298) to Chapter 5 of Part 46 of Division 7 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to community colleges. An act to amend Section 53369.3 of the Government Code, relating to local government.

CA AB395

An act to add Section 37224 to, and to add Article 12 (commencing with Section 66095) to Chapter 2 of Part 40 of Division 5 of Title 3 of, the Education Code, and to amend Sections 11131 and 54961 of the Government Code, relating to holidays.

CA AB1155

Law schools: externships: compensation.

CA SB289

Postsecondary education: Gender and Sex Discrimination Educational Oversight Office.

CA SB835

An act to amend Sections 44671 and 49600 of, and to add Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 52210) to Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of, the Education Code, relating to pupil instruction.

CA AB7

Postsecondary education: admissions preference: descendants of slavery.

CA AB2374

An act to add Article 7.6 (commencing with Section 66077) to Chapter 2 of Part 40 of Division 5 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to postsecondary education.

CA SB1255

An act to add Article 7.7 (commencing with Section 66078) to Chapter 2 of Part 40 of Division 5 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to postsecondary education.

CA AB885

Public postsecondary education: College Access for All Fund.

CA AB713

Public postsecondary education: student employment.

Similar Bills

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ND HB1064

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ND HB1064

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RI H5601

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RI S2211

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RI S0020

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