Distance learning.

Existing law establishes the various segments of the public higher education system in the state. These segments include the University of California, which is administered by the Regents of the University of California, the California State University, which is administered by the Trustees of the California State University, and the California Community Colleges, which is administered by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges. This bill would require that by January 1, 2014, and every 2 years thereafter, the Trustees of the California State University and the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges, and request the Regents of the University of California, report to the Legislature on workload and key performance data on distance learning courses, as defined. This bill would, by February 1, 2012, also require the Legislative Analyst's Office to convene a work group composed of the Legislative Analyst, specified staff of the Legislature, and the Department of Finance to evaluate whether it is necessary, or advisable, to establish the Western Governors University, California. The work group would be required to consult with representatives of the University of California, the California State University, the California Community Colleges, the California Postsecondary Education Commission, independent California colleges and universities, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The work group would, by February 1, 2013, be required to report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature. These provisions would be repealed on January 1, 2018. The bill would state the intent of the Legislature relating to the Western Governors University, California, as a degree-granting institution that is self-supporting and does not receive state funding.