The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education's Advisory Committee convened on August 27, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and ongoing projects. Judy Bucherelli from the DCA provided a comprehensive overview of recent developments, including the governor's reorganization plan and updates on telework policies.

Bucherelli announced that Governor Gavin Newsom's reorganization plan, which aims to split the DCA into two separate agencies—the California Housing and Homelessness Agency and the Business and Consumer Services Agency—was officially enacted on July 5, 2025. The new agencies will begin operations on July 1, 2026. This change is expected to enhance the focus on consumer affairs, licensing, and enforcement.

In addition, Bucherelli addressed the transition to a hybrid telework model, noting that an executive order from March 2025 requires state agencies to increase in-office workdays from two to four per week starting July 1, 2025. However, agreements with labor unions have delayed this requirement for most employees by one year.

The meeting also covered updates on travel policies, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility in state travel. Bucherelli highlighted that out-of-state travel would be limited to essential business only, with requests needing to be submitted eight weeks in advance for review.

Jason Piccione, the Chief Information Officer for the DCA, provided an update on the IT system project, which has successfully migrated 25 years of data to a new platform. This transition is part of ongoing efforts to modernize the department's data systems. Piccione acknowledged the challenges faced during this process and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and stakeholder feedback as the system stabilizes.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, though none were received. The committee expressed gratitude for the updates and the efforts of the staff involved in these significant changes. The discussions underscored the DCA's commitment to improving services and operational efficiency in the face of evolving state needs.