1. (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. (1) To recognize postsecondary educational institutions that are supportive and inclusive of veterans and military connected families.
   2. (2) To provide veterans and military connected families with enhanced support for pursuing and finishing a degree or postsecondary credential.

2. (b) The commission and the department shall jointly:

   1. (1) determine the criteria for awarding the designation to a state educational institution, an approved postsecondary educational institution, or other postsecondary educational institution;
   2. (2) determine the length of time that a designation awarded under this chapter is valid; and
   3. (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.