HB 4903

Abstract

Creates the Transparency in College Textbook Publishing Practices Act. Provides that a public institution of higher education in this State may not buy, sell, or allow the sale on its campus of a textbook unless and until the publisher of that textbook posts on its Internet website or otherwise makes available to the public (1) for any bundled textbook, the price difference between the bundled textbook and the same unbundled textbook; (2) for any new editions of textbooks, a summary of the substantive differences between the new edition and the prior edition; (3) for any new editions of textbooks, an estimate of how long the new edition will remain in print; and (4) the amount and recipient of any compensation provided to faculty or administrators of the institution as inducement to adopt particular textbooks for courses, except for sample copies and royalties. Allows the Attorney General, a State's Attorney, or any affected resident of this State to bring a civil action to enforce the Act. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement.