AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.
Impact
The proposed adjustments have significant implications for the governance structure of higher education in Tennessee. By instituting a formal mechanism for faculty representation within critical oversight committees, HB2427 seeks to enhance academic involvement in administrative affairs. Furthermore, this bill alters timelines and procedures related to the confirmation of appointed members, establishing clearer guidelines for how faculty and board members are to be appointed and what constitutes a lapse of appointment due to a failure in confirmation by the General Assembly.
Summary
House Bill 2427 (HB2427) is a legislative act aimed at amending portions of the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly in reference to higher education. This bill mandates that the standing committee responsible for overseeing academic affairs and student success include a voting full-time faculty member from a University of Tennessee institution. The appointment process for this faculty member is detailed, requiring selection and confirmation by the General Assembly, which must take place annually. This change aims to ensure that faculty have a direct role in governance and decision-making regarding academic policies.
Contention
While the bill emphasizes the importance of faculty input in academic governance, it may also raise concerns regarding the balance of power within higher education administration. Supporters of the bill argue that having faculty representation will lead to more informed decision-making and a better reflection of student and faculty interests in governance. Critics, however, might contend that such changes could complicate the administrative process and raise questions about the efficacy of faculty governance if not properly managed. Moreover, the requirement for legislative confirmation could also lead to political influences that may not align with academic priorities.
Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.
Cover Outstanding Vulnerable Expansion-eligible Residents Now Act or the COVER Now Act This bill establishes a demonstration program to allow local governments to provide health benefits to the Medicaid expansion population in states that have not expanded Medicaid. Under the program, local governments may provide coverage for individuals who are newly eligible for Medicaid under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., the Medicaid expansion population) for a maximum of 10 years, or until their respective states expand Medicaid. The bill provides a 100% federal matching rate for the first three years of program participation. The bill prohibits states from taking certain actions against participating localities, such as withholding funding, increasing taxes, or restricting provider participation. States that violate these requirements are subject to certain funding penalties.