Pa. bill requiring cheap textbooks under scrutiny

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Legislation that would require Pennsylvania state college professors to buy the cheapest educationally sound textbooks for their courses is drawing scrutiny from faculty groups.

The American Association of University Professors issued a statement Monday warning that the bill is a step toward restricting academic freedom.

Textbook legislation sponsored by Sen. Andrew Dinniman passed the Senate on June 23. He says he does not intend to limit faculty rights, but he wants student cost factored into selecting course materials.

The president of the Association of Pennsylvania State College & University Faculties says he appreciates the bill’s intent but is concerned about course quality and academic freedom.

The legislation now heads to the House Education Committee.