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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | May 8, 2024 10:09 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jesse Topper |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Grow PA - Performance-based Funding Council |
| In order to ensure that every dollar invested in Pennsylvania’s State-related schools (Penn State, Pittsburgh, and Temple) provides the best possible outcome for students, families and taxpayers, I plan to introduce legislation to establish the Performance-based Funding Council (“Council”). The Council will consist of voting members appointed by the Governor and legislative leaders, as well as nonvoting members representing the State-related universities, and will develop and recommend a new system for distributing funding to these institutions utilizing performance-based metrics designed to increase degree attainment, encourage affordability, meet workforce needs, and grow the economy. A wide range of performance-based metrics will be considered, including graduation rates, student retention, degree production, net tuition and fees, postgraduation employment and salaries, enrollment in high-priority occupations, dual enrollment, and credit articulation. This comprehensive approach will provide a well-rounded assessment of each university's performance and contributions to the Commonwealth. The Council will hold public hearings at each State-related university and receive input from experts, parents, and students to ensure that the new funding system is developed with transparency and considers the needs and concerns of key stakeholders. The Department of Education, PHEAA, and the State-related universities will provide technical support, including data, research, and other assistance required by the Council. If the Council fails to transmit its recommendations and draft legislation to the Department of Education by April 30, 2025, the department is required to withhold payments to the State-related universities until the recommendations are received. This provision ensures that the council remains accountable and completes its work in a timely manner. By establishing the Council and developing a new system for distributing funds to State-related universities, this bill represents a significant step towards aligning higher education funding with the goals of student success, affordability, and workforce development. I urge all members of the General Assembly to join me in supporting this legislation and the positive impact it will have on Pennsylvania's higher education system and economy. |