Assembly Member Alanis proposes expanding postsecondary education access in California by requiring territories outside community college districts to receive equivalent educational opportunities, with a particular focus on five underserved counties: Amador, Alpine, Mariposa, Modoc, and Sierra.

The legislation directs the Milton Marks "Little Hoover" Commission to evaluate postsecondary education services in these counties and develop policy recommendations by December 2026. The study must examine educational and economic impacts, dual enrollment pathways, outreach services, potential program providers, and resource requirements. To inform its analysis, the Commission will convene a working group comprising representatives from the affected counties, rural organizations, adjacent community college districts, state educational institutions, and local education agencies.

The bill modifies existing policy that requires all state territories to be within a community college district, except those in counties with fewer than 350 units of average daily attendance. Under the new provisions, areas outside district boundaries must receive equivalent opportunities for both in-person and online postsecondary education. The Commission's recommendations will address how to ensure residents in the five counties can access educational programs comparable to those in similarly sized communities within district boundaries.

The study provisions will sunset on January 1, 2031, following the Commission's submission of findings and recommendations to the Legislature and Governor. This timeline allows for implementation of any proposed changes while maintaining oversight of their effectiveness.