Sec. 3. (a) The commission, in coordination with the department and in consultation with the state educational institutions, shall develop and implement the higher education purple star designation for the following purposes:

(1) To recognize postsecondary educational institutions that are supportive and inclusive of veterans and military connected families.

(2) To provide veterans and military connected families with enhanced support for pursuing and finishing a degree or postsecondary credential.

     (b) The commission and the department shall jointly:

(1) determine the criteria for awarding the designation to a state educational institution, an approved postsecondary educational institution, or other postsecondary educational institution;

(2) determine the length of time that a designation awarded under this chapter is valid; and

(3) prescribe the form and manner in which a postsecondary educational institution may apply to be awarded the designation.

As added by P.L.49-2023, SEC.1.