Connecticut's House Bill 6865, introduced on March 28, 2025, aims to protect students enrolled in private career schools from financial losses due to school insolvency or closure. The bill proposes a structured refund process for students who have paid tuition but are unable to complete their courses because their school has ceased operations.

Under the new provisions, students can apply for a tuition refund within two years of their school's insolvency. The Commissioner of Consumer Protection will oversee the refund process, determining eligibility and the appropriate refund amount based on tuition paid for uncompleted courses. This initiative is particularly significant for students attending distance learning and correspondence schools, as it ensures that only Connecticut residents are eligible for refunds in these cases.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and education advocates, with supporters emphasizing the need for consumer protection in the educational sector. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential financial burden on the state’s refund account, which is funded by fees from private career schools. Amendments to the bill have been proposed to address these concerns, aiming to balance student protection with fiscal responsibility.

The implications of House Bill 6865 are substantial. By providing a safety net for students, the bill seeks to enhance trust in private career education, which has faced scrutiny over the years. Experts believe that this legislation could lead to increased enrollment in these institutions, as students may feel more secure knowing they have recourse in the event of a school's failure.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its final form will be closely watched by stakeholders in the education sector. If passed, it will take effect on July 1, 2026, marking a significant step toward safeguarding the interests of students in Connecticut's private career schools.