Regulatory Enforcement as Policy: Exploring Factors Related to State Lawsuits Against For-Profit Colleges

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 64
  In Roundtable Session: New Perspectives on State Policy Creation, Diffusion, and Outcomes

Abstract

Regulatory enforcement is a policy decision in itself. Given the current federal commitment to deregulate the for-profit college market, state regulations will likely become increasingly important. This study examines the factors contributing to the enforcement of state-level proprietary college regulations. Using event history analysis, the authors test diffusion and innovation theories as potential explanations for patterns of enforcement. The findings suggest geographic diffusion plays an important role in state lawsuits against for-profit colleges. Moreover, loan repayment rates of for-profit students appear to contribute to the likelihood of a lawsuit being filed. The findings suggest that market factors may play an influential role in state governments enforcing regulations on for-profit colleges.

Authors

• James Dean Ward, University of Southern California

• William G. Tierney, University of Southern California