Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00004

Introduced
2/7/18  
Introduced
2/7/18  
Refer
2/7/18  
Refer
2/7/18  
Report Pass
3/15/18  
Refer
3/28/18  
Report Pass
4/4/18  
Report Pass
4/4/18  
Engrossed
4/18/18  
Report Pass
4/19/18  
Report Pass
4/19/18  
Enrolled
4/25/18  
Enrolled
4/25/18  
Passed
4/27/18  
Chaptered
5/2/18  
Enrolled
5/3/18  

Caption

An Act Assisting Students Without Legal Immigration Status With The Cost Of College.

Impact

The implications of SB00004 on state laws are significant as it facilitates access to public higher education for individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to their immigration status. By allowing institutional financial aid for these eligible students and veterans, the bill promotes educational equity and aligns with broader objectives of inclusion and support for immigrant communities in the state. However, the bill does not require public institutions to supplement federal financial aid, which may limit the practical impact of the law.

Summary

SB00004, also known as An Act Assisting Students Without Legal Immigration Status With The Cost Of College, aims to extend financial aid eligibility to certain students and veterans without legal immigration status attending public institutions of higher education in the state. The bill requires that eligible individuals, including those applying for legalization of their immigration status, can apply for institutional financial aid, which encompasses tuition waivers and grants. This legislation is designed to ease the financial burden of higher education for individuals who meet specific criteria, including age and residency requirements.

Sentiment

Discussion around SB00004 was mixed, reflecting a broader national debate on immigration and education policies. Supporters of the bill, including various advocacy groups, view it as a progressive step towards inclusivity and providing low-income immigrant students access to higher education. Conversely, opponents expressed concerns that state-funded aid for undocumented students could divert resources from citizens and legal residents, potentially fueling public dissent and opposition.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the perceived fairness of allocating state resources to individuals without legal immigration status. Critics argue that such measures may undermine the financial assistance available to citizens and legal residents, while advocates assert that all students, regardless of immigration status, deserve the opportunity for education. The debate encapsulates larger socio-political discussions about immigration, education funding, and the responsibilities of state institutions in accommodating diverse populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05239

An Act Establishing The Path Program And Amending The Connecticut Collegiate Awareness And Preparation Program.

CT SB00107

An Act Updating Requirements For Construction Management Oversight At The University Of Connecticut, Pausing The Requirement For A Plan To Increase The Number Of Full-time Faculty At Public Institutions Of Higher Education And Replacing References To The President Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities With The Chancellor Of The Connecticut State Colleges And Universities.

CT SB00309

An Act Concerning A Study Of Medical Assistance For Certain Legally Present Noncitizens.

CT HB05126

An Act Concerning Postsecondary Education Opportunities In The State.

CT HB05129

An Act Concerning Substance-free Housing On College Campuses.

CT SB00204

An Act Expanding The Debt-free Community College Program And Naming The Grants After Mary Ann Handley.

CT HB05363

An Act Concerning The Planning Commission For Higher Education.

CT HB05238

An Act Increasing The Amount Of The Minimum Awards Under The Debt-free Community College Program.

CT HB05237

An Act Requiring Student Surveys During Evaluation Of A Private Career School To Renew A Certificate Of Authorization.

CT SB00106

An Act Concerning Workforce Development Initiatives In The State.

Similar Bills

CA AB850

Institutional Debt Transparency Act.

TX SB174

Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.

CA AB1344

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.

NJ A5181

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ S3566

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

NJ A3422

Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.

CA AB70

Private postsecondary education: California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009.

CA AB3167

California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009: highly qualified private nonprofit institution.