Postsecondary education: postsecondary education coordinating entity: interstate reciprocity agreements for distance education: out-of-state private postsecondary educational institutions.

Senator Cabaldon's comprehensive postsecondary education bill establishes a new state-level coordinating entity for higher education while creating a framework for California's participation in interstate distance education agreements. The legislation dissolves the California Postsecondary Education Commission, directing the Governor to designate a state agency as the principal coordinator for postsecondary education programs and policies.

The designated agency would oversee implementation of the Master Plan for Career Education, coordinate intersegmental state initiatives, and serve as the portal entity for interstate distance education agreements. The bill authorizes the Governor to enter such agreements after certifying specific consumer protection provisions, including preservation of the state's authority to address fraud, maintain existing student protections, and oversee military education programs.

The legislation also modifies oversight of out-of-state institutions offering distance education to California students. Institutions approved under interstate agreements would be exempt from certain state registration requirements, while those without such approval must register with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. The bill expands the Student Tuition Recovery Fund to protect California residents enrolled in approved out-of-state distance education programs when the fund exceeds $25 million.

Through memoranda of understanding, the new coordinating entity would partner with public higher education systems, independent colleges, and the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education to implement these changes. The legislation maintains existing consumer protection standards while establishing new mechanisms for interstate coordination of distance education oversight.