California Assembly Bill AB1113

California 2021-2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/21
• Refer: 3/4/21
• Report Pass: 3/23/21
• Refer: 3/24/21
• Report Pass: 4/12/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Refer: 4/21/21
• Report Pass: 5/20/21
• Engrossed: 6/1/21
• Refer: 6/2/21
• Refer: 6/16/21
• Report Pass: 6/30/21
• Refer: 6/30/21
• Report Pass: 7/7/21
• Refer: 7/7/21
• Refer: 7/15/21
• Report Pass: 8/26/21
• Enrolled: 9/9/21
• Chaptered: 10/6/21
• Passed: 10/6/21

Caption

Public postsecondary education: exemption from tuition and fees: qualifying survivors of persons providing medical or emergency services deceased during COVID-19 California state of emergency.

Impact

The implementation of AB 1113 has significant implications for state laws related to public postsecondary education. By exempting specific survivor groups from mandatory tuition fees, the bill acknowledges the risks faced by healthcare and emergency personnel during a public health crisis. Additionally, it reflects the state's commitment to support families who have lost loved ones serving in critical roles, reinforcing the value placed on public service careers and their sacrifices.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1113 is an act that amends sections of the Education Code to provide exemptions from tuition and fees for qualifying survivors of individuals who provided medical or emergency services and who died during the COVID-19 state of emergency in California. This legislation builds upon existing law which already provides similar benefits for the surviving spouses and children of deceased law enforcement and fire suppression personnel. It now expands eligibility to include licensed healthcare professionals who died due to complications from COVID-19 while serving in their capacities during the pandemic.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1113 is largely positive, with legislators and advocates recognizing the importance of supporting families impacted by the loss of medical and emergency service providers due to COVID-19. There is a sense of solidarity and respect for the sacrifices made by those in the healthcare field during the pandemic. However, some concerns may arise regarding the financial implications this might impose on community college districts and whether sufficient funds will be provided to cover the mandated costs.

Contention

While AB 1113 presents a humane approach to supporting survivors, there could be contention regarding the bill's financial sustainability and the administrative responsibilities it places on community colleges. Questions may arise about how these institutions will manage the potential influx of fee waivers and whether adequate state funding will be allocated to cover these costs. Furthermore, ensuring that the benefits are appropriately targeted and do not disadvantage other student populations could be a point of debate as the law is enacted.