Legislature gives Oregon University System freedom from agency status - Bill Graves, the Oregonian

The Oregon University System's quest for more independence and freedom from state regulations cleared its final major hurdle Monday with approval by the House. Senate Bill 242 would end the state agency status of Oregon's seven public universities, giving them more freedom in how they manage, spend and raise money. "It is a sea change in higher education," said Paul Kelly, president of the State Board of Higher Education. "It is almost a new beginning."