HIGHER ED-DISTANCE LEARNING

Creates the Higher Education Distance Learning Act. Provides that in recent years, distance education offered by institutions of higher learning has been increasing, with such distance education being offered on an interstate basis by many institutions. Provides that the provision of distance education is declared to affect the public safety and welfare and shall be subject to regulation and control in the public interest. Provides that the Board of Higher Education is authorized to participate in a state authorization reciprocity agreement on behalf of this State. Provides that the Board of Higher Education shall be the lead agency in coordinating interstate reciprocity for distance learning for participating institutions in this State. Sets forth provisions governing agreements where Illinois is the home state or the reciprocal state. Provides that this Act applies only to distance learning programs and authorizes the Board of Higher Education to adopt rules for the execution of its powers and duties under the Act. Creates the Distance Learning Fund to supplement support for the administration and enforcement of the Act. Amends the State Finance Act to create the Distance Learning Fund.