Co-Sponsorship Memo Details

Reductions in enrollment and financial strain at the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) schools led to the decision to consolidate six of its 14 schools into two. This difficult decision was made with the hope that it would allow PASSHE to come out stronger on the other side. In order to ensure PASSHE completes the consolidation process stronger than they were before, it is important that we have a clear picture of the financial health of the schools post-consolidation to address any remaining issues.  

 

That is why I am introducing legislation to require the Auditor General to conduct a thorough performance audit of the PASSHE schools that were approved for consolidation. The performance audit would provide an independent assessment of the financial health of the schools after integration, and recommendations for the Chancellor, university presidents, and the General Assembly to improve the financial stability of the integrated schools so that the integration process is successful. This legislation would help to ensure that our PASSHE schools have a healthy financial future and can continue to educate future generations of Pennsylvanians. 

 

It is important that we do everything we can to guarantee the success of PASSHE schools, and that begins with assessing finances after the consolidation process is complete. I hope you will join me in supporting this important legislation that will help ensure a bright future for our PASSHE schools, their students, and Pennsylvania as a whole.