HB 2381-S.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Requires that an institution be accredited or be making progress toward accreditation by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States department of education.

Directs the board to develop and disseminate information to the public about entities that sell or award degrees without requiring appropriate academic achievement at the postsecondary level, including but not limited to, a description of the substandard and potentially fraudulent practices of these entities, and advice about how the public can recognize and avoid the entities.

Requires that, to the extent feasible, the information shall include links to additional resources that may assist the public in identifying specific institutions offering substandard or fraudulent degree programs.

Declares that no exemption granted under chapter 28B.85 RCW is permanent. The board shall periodically review exempted degree-granting institutions, and continue exemptions only if an institution meets the statutory requirements for exemption in effect on the date of the review.

Declares that this act does not apply to honorary credentials clearly designated as such on the front side of the diploma or certificate awarded by institutions offering other educational credentials in compliance with state law; or institutions not otherwise exempt which offer only workshops or seminars and institutions offering only credit-bearing workshops or seminars lasting no longer than three calendar days.