Lawmakers consider ending recognition of online university

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Less than a year after the online Western Governors University launched its Ohio affiliate , state lawmakers are considering eliminating recognition that lets its students benefit from certain financial aid programs.

That’s part of the budget bill passed Thursday by the House. It’s now headed to the Senate.

WGU Ohio Chancellor Rebecca Watts opposed the change. She says it would make students at the accredited, nonprofit school ineligible for certain state-funded aid, including need-based grants.

WGU also says students in its teacher preparation program would be treated as out-of-state applicants for licensing.

It’s unclear who advocated the change. A message seeking comment was left with the House speaker’s office.

WGU doesn’t directly get state funding. It says it has over 3,100 students, who study fields such as nursing and information technology.