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Student Data Protection: New Rules for Colleges in Case of Closure

This act introduces new requirements for higher education institutions regarding the management of student records, especially in the event of their closure. It aims to ensure students have easy access to their transcripts, financial data, and other important information, and protects them from additional fees for these documents.
Key points
Colleges must submit a plan for managing student records (transcripts, financial data) if they intend to cease operations.
The plan must include a list of students with contact information to facilitate access to their documents.
Colleges will not be able to charge fees for student records for one year after closure, and only a nominal fee thereafter.
Any financial holds placed on student records must be released.
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Status:
Expired
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Additional Information
Student Records Protection Act
Print number: HR 4596
Sponsor: Rep. Cartwright, Matt [D-PA-8]
Process start date: 2021-07-21
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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Summary & Status

Key Questions about Student Data Protection: New Rules for Colleges in Case of Closure

A structured overview of the legislative process, official sources, status and civic context.

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is HR 4596.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-07-21.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Colleges must submit a plan for managing student records (transcripts, financial data) if they intend to cease operations.
  • The plan must include a list of students with contact information to facilitate access to their documents.
  • Colleges will not be able to charge fees for student records for one year after closure, and only a nominal fee thereafter.
  • Any financial holds placed on student records must be released.

What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Cartwright, Matt [D-PA-8].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

Analysis and Potential Impact of HR 4596

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CATEGORIES

Education