Bills to improve academic approval process in higher education moving in both chambers

Maryland lawmakers gave a preliminary nod Tuesday to legislation aimed at improving the approval process for higher education programs — a longtime source of controversy that was exacerbated last year after a decision by the state’s Higher Education Commission. The House and Senate quickly moved Senate Bill 1022 and House Bill 1244, which include many provisions based on the recommendations of a legislative work group that assessed the commission’s policies and procedures.