The passage of HB 2771 would directly affect the financial landscape for higher education in Arizona. By allocating substantial funding to the Arizona board of regents specifically for the Promise Program, the bill could enhance the accessibility of college and university education for students from lower-income families. This initiative would contribute to lowering the financial barrier for many students, aligning with broader efforts to increase educational attainment levels across the state.
Summary
House Bill 2771 proposes an appropriation of $40,000,000 from the state general fund to support the Arizona Promise Program for the fiscal year 2023-2024. This program is aimed at providing financial assistance to students in Arizona pursuing higher education, ensuring that more residents have access to postsecondary education opportunities. The bill intends for this funding to be considered ongoing, potentially influencing future budgets and appropriations related to education in the state.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support from various stakeholders within the education community, there may be concerns regarding the sustainability of the funding. Opponents might raise questions about the long-term viability of such financial commitments, particularly in times of economic uncertainty or when budget constraints arise. Ensuring that the program can continue to receive necessary funding in subsequent years will require careful legislative monitoring and potential adjustments to state financial strategies.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.