HB321 Alabama 2014 Session

Updated Feb 24, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Bill Poole
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2014
Title: Colleges and universities, participation in reciprocity agreements with other member states to generate without additional state approval or authorization in other member states, Secs. 10A-1-7.02, 16-46-3 am'd.
Summary: HB321 lets certain out-of-state nonprofit colleges and universities with online programs operate in Alabama under regional reciprocity agreements without extra state approval, by expanding exemptions from Alabama licensing and registration.
What This Bill Does
It creates an exemption allowing out-of-state nonprofit online program providers that are regionally accredited and located in states that participate in a regional authorization reciprocity agreement (approved by the Governor or ACHE) to operate in Alabama without additional Alabama registration. It also adds that foreign entities exempt from Chapter 46, Title 16 are not required to register under this chapter. The bill establishes that Alabama will participate in reciprocity agreements to enable member-state colleges and universities to operate across state lines with fewer Alabama-specific approvals.

Who It Affects
Out-of-state nonprofit colleges and universities that offer online programs; they would be exempt from Alabama registration if they are regionally accredited and in a state that participates in a regional authorization reciprocity agreement approved by the Governor or the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.
Alabama public and private education regulators and in-state schools; they would manage and enforce the exemption framework, monitor ongoing eligibility (e.g., accreditation), and private schools could voluntarily seek licensure without surety if applicable.

Key Provisions
Adds a new exemption in Section 10A-1-7.02: a foreign entity exempt from the requirements of Chapter 46, Title 16 is not required to register under this chapter.
Adds a new exemption in Section 16-46-3(10): any out-of-state nonprofit entity that offers online programs, is regionally accredited, and is located in a state participating in a regional authorization reciprocity agreement approved by the Governor or the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.
Exemption status lasts as long as the conditions remain valid; if accreditation is withdrawn or not maintained, the exemption may be lost.
Effective date: the act becomes law on the first day of the third month after its passage and approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Colleges and Universities