Pennsylvania Rep. introduces bill in response to possible PSU campus closures

Yahoo

06-03-2025

PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — In response to Penn State University's announcement on possible closures, a Representative announced a package of bills that would give Pennsylvanians a voice in higher education operations.
Recently, Dr. Neeli Bendapudi, the president of PSU, announced that several satellite campuses across the Commonwealth could possibly face closures. Representative Charity Krupa (R – Fayette), the author of the bill, argued that Penn State and other state-related institutions are publically funded so, in turn, have an obligation to serve all Pennsylvanians.
'The proposed closure of branch campuses, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged regions, is a direct betrayal of that mission and an unacceptable misuse of public funds,' Krupa wrote. 'These universities have an obligation to weigh the full consequences of their decisions.'
Krupa's package has three bills, each focused on a different sector of publically funded relations when it comes to universities.
This legislation looks to ensure that publicly funded state-related universities cannot close branch campuses without legislative oversight and public input. The bill will hold universities accountable by requiring:
Legislative approval before a branch campus can be closed, merged, or significantly downsized
A financial justification and economic impact study before any closure can be considered
A student impact report to assess how many students will lose access to higher education
Public hearings in the affected region to ensure community voices are heard
Penalties for noncompliance, including withholding state funding increases for universities that violate the act
The second bill would protect regional access to higher education and looks to ensure taxpayer dollars are 'used responsibly' by state-related universities. The legislation would establish 'common-sense measures' to prevent universities from 'abandoning communities with accountability' by:
Requiring a formal transition plan before a branch campus can close, ensuring alternative education options for students
Imposing funding penalties on universities that close campuses without a legitimate and approved plan
Mandating legislative oversight of institutions that attempt to cut off regional access to higher education
Conditioning state funding on maintaining access to four-year degree programs in affected regions
The third bill looks to ensure that state-related universities cannot close branch campuses without first assessing the economic and workforce consequences for the affected communities. Specifically, the bill would:
Mandate an independent economic analysis to evaluate the impact of a closure on local businesses, employment, and tax revenue
Examinebworkforce effects, particularly in industries already facing labor shortages
Require alternative education solutions to mitigate harm to students and the broader community
Subject the study to public and legislative review, ensuring transparency and accountability
Impose penalties on universities that close campuses without following these requirements, including funding reductions and tuition rebates for displaced students
It is important to note that as of publication, Dr. Bendapudi has yet to announce what PSU satellite campuses will close.
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