Following Wells Announcement, Bill Would Set Rules for College Closures

In the wake of Wells College’s closure announcement, State Senator Rachel May has introduced a bill that would establish rules for a college or university seeking to close.

Senate Bill S9391 would authorize and direct the commissioner of education to establish rules and regulations for colleges or universities planning to close. May hopes the bill would allow for a more seamless transition for students faculty, and staff of the closing institution while lessening the the negative effects the closure would have on the local community. The bill specifically requires colleges and universities to:

1. make public any decision to cease operations at least one year prior to the proposed closing date.
2. hold at least three public meetings to address concerns from students, faculties, staff, and the local community
3. provide notice to the institution’s accrediting agency at least nine months before the anticipated closing date
4. provide students details on teach-out plans or transfer agreements at least six months before the proposed closing date
5. provide details on any plans to sell, transfer, or utilize campus resources to local governments at least six months before the proposed closing date. This includes but is not limited to buildings, grounds, and facilities.
6. develop a transition plan with relevant partners at least four months before the proposed closing date if the college or university shares responsibility for or provides shared services to local governments or agencies for programs or physical operations

The bill is currently in the Senate’s Higher Education Committee. If passed, the law would become effective one year after its passage.

May has also proposed legislation that would assist communities affected by the closure of colleges, such as Aurora. May introduced Senate Bill S5234 after Cazenovia College announced it would close. May had previously represented the Town of Cazenovia in the State Senate.

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