Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB794

Introduced

3/3/25

Refer

3/3/25

Caption

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

Impact

One significant aspect of HB 794 is its potential impact on the governance and operational capabilities of community colleges. By defining their roles more explicitly, the bill seeks to ensure that community colleges can effectively operate and deliver quality education that meets the needs of their communities. Furthermore, the bill enhances the authority of the State Board of Education to create policies and standards that guide the establishment and maintenance of these institutions. This change may lead to increased accountability and standardized operations across community colleges.

Summary

House Bill 794 aims to amend the Public School Code of 1949 by providing clearer definitions and enhanced powers and duties to the State Board of Education concerning community colleges in Pennsylvania. The bill emphasizes the role of community colleges in offering a variety of degree programs and technical education. It specifies that community colleges can provide services pertinent to career and technical education, thereby expanding their responsibilities in the educational landscape of the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 794 appears to be generally positive among educational stakeholders. Proponents feel that the bill represents an important step towards improving post-secondary education in Pennsylvania, particularly in terms of vocational training and community engagement. Supporters argue that by enhancing the operational framework of community colleges, the bill could lead to better support for students and more robust career pathways.

Contention

Despite the positive sentiment, there may be areas of contention regarding the extent of the State Board's authority over community colleges. Some educators and advocates might be concerned that increased regulation could limit the flexibility and responsiveness of community colleges to meet local needs. There may also be discussions about the adequacy of funding and resources available for these institutions to fulfill their expanded roles effectively, highlighting the need for careful consideration of financial implications as the bill moves forward.

Latest PA HB794 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session HB794

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB59

In community colleges, further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of State Board of Education and for degrees.

PA HB1728

In community colleges, further providing for definitions and for financial program and reimbursement of payments.

PA SB951

In community colleges, further providing for definitions and for financial program and reimbursement of payments.

PA HB345

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and for powers and duties of councils of trustees.

PA SB1214

In institutions of higher education, abolishing the State Board of Higher Education and its powers and duties; further providing for Performance-based Funding Council and for public institution of higher education reporting; and providing for reversion of certain powers and duties of the State Board of Higher Education to the State Board of Education and Council of Higher Education.

PA HB759

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in the Secretary of the Commonwealth, further providing for powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth; and, in county boards of elections, further providing for powers and duties of county boards.

PA SB197

Further providing for definitions, for powers and duties of board, for continuing education and for practice of physical therapy.

PA HB2375

In charter schools, further providing for definitions, for charter school requirements, for establishment of charter school, for causes for nonrenewal or termination, for powers and duties of department, for cyber charter school requirements and prohibitions and for establishment of cyber charter school; and, in the State Board of Education, further providing for powers and duties of the board.

PA HB228

In the State Board of Education, further providing for definitions and providing for academic standards review; and making editorial changes.

PA HB46

In duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens and providing for pre-kindergarten programs; and, in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence and for definitions.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.