An Act Concerning Emergency Expense Grant Programs At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.
Impact
The legislation mandates that eligible public institutions of higher education may award emergency expense grants based on applications from students or nominations from staff members. It permits institutions to accept private donations and allocate institutional funds, as well as to apply for matching state grants from the Office of Higher Education. A notable provision is that the total amount of matching grants can be capped at $500,000 per year, which aims to ensure sustainability while providing meaningful support.
Summary
House Bill 5832 aims to establish emergency expense grant programs at public institutions of higher education. The bill allows these institutions to provide financial assistance to students facing unexpected hardships that could impede their ability to complete their degree programs. Such financial hardships may include expenses related to childcare, medical care, or transportation. This initiative intends to create a safety net for students, ensuring they have the required support to overcome financial obstacles during their academic journey.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 5832 appears to be largely positive, with supporters viewing it as a crucial step toward enhancing student welfare within the higher education system. By providing targeted financial assistance, proponents believe the bill will enhance retention rates and allow more students to complete their degrees without interruption due to unforeseen financial crises. However, there may be concerns regarding the cap on state matching funds and how equitably these grants will be distributed among institutions.
Contention
While the overall sentiment is supportive, there may be contention over how the caps on state matching grants could affect larger institutions compared to smaller ones, potentially leading to disparities in support available to students. Some may argue that the funding limits might not adequately cover the growing need for emergency financial assistance, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Therefore, ongoing discussions around potential amendments to increase funding allocations could arise as the program is implemented.
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.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.