Connecticut House Bill HB05353

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20

Caption

An Act Funding The Debt-free Community College Program.

Impact

The passage of HB 05353 would create a dedicated account within the General Fund, known as the 'debt-free community college account.' This account would collect various funding sources, including state appropriations and revenue generated from online lottery draw games. By allocating these funds, the bill aims to enhance accessibility to higher education for students across Connecticut, potentially improving enrollment rates and educational outcomes. The use of lottery revenue represents a novel funding mechanism for educational programs, marking a significant shift in how such initiatives are financed.

Summary

House Bill 05353, known as An Act Funding The Debt-free Community College Program, aims to provide financial support for community college students in Connecticut, allowing them to pursue higher education without accruing debt. The bill proposes an appropriation of sixteen million dollars from the state's General Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, specifically for this purpose. The funding is intended to facilitate the implementation of the debt-free community college program established under existing statutes.

Contention

While the intent of the bill is largely seen as positive, there may be points of contention regarding the reliance on lottery revenues for funding education. Critics may argue that funding education through gambling-related sources raises ethical concerns and could lead to unpredictable financing that might not be sustainable. Furthermore, stakeholders in the education sector will likely debate the adequacy of the proposed amount and its impact on the broader educational budget and priorities, raising questions about the long-term viability and effectiveness of the debt-free community college program.