Committee Meetings
 This week was a busy period for committee meetings as legislators tried to move remaining bills through the process. The Senate held higher education-related committee meetings every day; in fact, they have one planned for this weekend.
On Monday, the Senate Higher Education Subcommittee considered a number of bills related to financial aid administration. These bills — SB 2047, SB 2048 and SB 2049 — respond to accounts of ethically questionable practices between colleges and the student loan industry. SB 2049 again was considered in subsequent meetings and has the best chance among the three to move forward. [Read SB 2049]
On Tuesday, DCCCD purchasing director Philip Todd testified before the House Higher Education Committee in support of SB 1064, the community college purchasing bill. The bill was supported by the committee and now awaits action by the full House.
Also on Tuesday, the House Higher Education Committee considered SB 114, one of the remaining textbook-related bills. The bill passed out of committee and is waiting for action by the House. DCCCD has worked to obtain approval for this bill and has drafted an amendment that will be considered on the House floor. [Read SB 114]
On Thursday, the Senate passed HB 447, along with a DCCCD-drafted amendment. This bill focuses on contracts by governmental entities and related professional services as well as public works performance and payment bonds. Our amendment ensured that the bill would exclude community colleges. This action allows SB 1064 (if passed) to serve as the guiding principle on these matters. [Read HB 447]
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