Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00017

Introduced
2/6/20  
Refer
2/6/20  

Caption

An Act Requiring The Completion Of The Free Application For Federal Student Aid.

Impact

The bill's passage would directly affect state education policies by mandating that local and regional boards of education enforce completion of the FAFSA as a prerequisite for receiving a diploma. This could lead to increased awareness about college financial aid among high school students and their families, promoting higher education as an attainable goal. Furthermore, the mandate includes provisions for students who are undocumented, ensuring that they are not excluded from opportunities to receive financial assistance for education.

Summary

SB00017 is an act that mandates the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as a requirement for high school graduation. This law applies to the graduating class of 2022 onwards, requiring that students either complete the FAFSA or submit an application for financial aid for students without legal immigration status, or a waiver form. By implementing this legislation, the state aims to facilitate access to financial aid for students, potentially increasing college enrollment rates among graduates who might otherwise forego seeking financial support.

Contention

However, the implementation of this act could provoke significant debate among educators, lawmakers, and advocacy groups. Some may view it as an essential step in making higher education more accessible, while others might argue that imposing such a requirement could add pressure to students already facing various challenges. Opponents may contend that it could disproportionately affect students who are unaware of the FAFSA process or lack support systems to help them navigate their options, potentially impacting their graduation rates. Additionally, concerns may arise about the feasibility of enforcing this requirement across diverse educational settings.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05437

An Act Concerning Education Mandate Relief, School Discipline And Disconnected Youth.

CT HB05341

An Act Requiring Reporting Of Projected And Actual Revenues And Expenditures At Public Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT HB05523

An Act Concerning Allocations Of Federal American Rescue Plan Act Funds And Provisions Related To General Government, Human Services, Education And The Biennium Ending June 30, 2025.

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 SB00410

An Act Concerning Paid Internships For High School Students.

CT SB00014

An Act Assisting School Districts In Improving Educational Outcomes, Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Education And The Technical Education And Career System And Establishing Early Start Ct.

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 HB05001

An Act Supporting Connecticut Seniors And The Improvement Of Nursing And Home-based Care.

CT SB00216

An Act Concerning A Study Regarding The Use Of An Online Software Application To Address The Mental Health Needs Of Students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.