Pennsylvania Representative Introduces Bill for University Campus Closure Transparency

Harrisburg Lancaster Lebanon York, PA, September 22, 2026 —

Harrisburg, PA – A new legislative effort aims to bring greater transparency to decisions concerning the closure of university campuses in Pennsylvania. Representative Jill Cooper has introduced House Bill 2789, a proposal designed to ensure more public insight into the processes involved when academic institutions consider shuttering campuses.

The introduction of this bill comes in the wake of recent criticism surrounding the closure of several university facilities. Specifically, the measure addresses concerns that arose following a decision by Penn State University’s Board of Trustees. The Board had approved a plan to close a total of seven campuses. The process leading up to this approval faced scrutiny, prompting calls for more open decision-making in the future.

House Bill 2789 seeks to establish clear guidelines and requirements for universities when they undertake evaluations or make decisions about closing campus locations. While the specifics of the bill’s provisions are still being detailed, the stated intent is to foster accountability and provide affected communities and stakeholders with more opportunities for input and information.

The exact details of the criticism directed at Penn State University’s campus closure process were not specified in the summary. Furthermore, the current status of House Bill 2789, including its progression through the legislative chambers, its potential impact, and any proposed timelines for implementation, was not provided. The bill’s introduction marks an initial step in addressing perceived gaps in transparency within the state’s higher education system.

Story summarized from the original created by Harry Murphy on www.abc27.com, see more information here.

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