Georgia Senate Bill SR602

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

General Assembly; restrict, regulate, or prohibit the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia from approving any increase in tuition; authorize -CA

Impact

If ratified, SR602 will substantially alter the administrative powers of the Board of Regents regarding tuition increases. Currently, the Board has broad authority to set tuition and fees based on a variety of operational and financial factors. This amendment seeks to curb the rate of increase, thus potentially making higher education more accessible and affordable for Georgia residents. Critics of the measure might argue that such limitations could impose financial constraints on university operations, affecting their ability to provide quality education and necessary services.

Summary

Senate Resolution 602 (SR602) proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Georgia aimed at granting the General Assembly the authority to restrict, regulate, or prohibit the Board of Regents from approving any increase in tuition or student fees by more than 3 percent compared to the previous academic year. This move is intended to bring more legislative oversight and control over tuition rates in the University System of Georgia, which has seen increasing tuition costs over the years. By instituting this cap, the bill aims to help manage the financial burden on students and their families.

Contention

The proposed constitutional amendment is anticipated to foster significant debate within the legislative and educational communities. Supporters assert that controlling tuition growth is essential for improving access to higher education and reducing student debt. However, opponents may argue that imposing a rigid cap could lead to unintended consequences, such as funding shortages for universities and diminished quality in educational offerings. The discussions surrounding SR602 are expected to illuminate various perspectives on the balance between legislative authority and institutional autonomy within the realm of higher education.