Provides for setting tuition and fees at public postsecondary education institutions (EG INCREASE SG RV See Note)
If enacted, HB 66 would represent a significant shift in the governance of tuition and fees, providing greater flexibility to management boards of higher education institutions. The bill retains existing tuition and fee structures as of December 31, 2015, subject to the new provisions while repealing numerous existing statutes that dictate how fees can be set. This change aims to simplify administrative processes and empower institutions to respond more effectively to the financial needs of their student populations and operational demands.
House Bill 66, introduced by Representative Carmody, aims to authorize public postsecondary education institutions in Louisiana to establish their own tuition and fees independent of legislative approval, which traditionally required a two-thirds vote. The bill seeks to amend the current constitutional framework that governs fee increases by removing the necessity for legislative action regarding tuition. This authority would enable institutions to set diverse tuition structures, including differential, tiered, and proportional tuition, thereby allowing for a more tailored approach to student fees based on various factors such as major, enrollment status, and educational mode.
The sentiment surrounding HB 66 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that although it grants institutions more autonomy, it is primarily beneficial for students, as it can lead to more tailored and potentially lower costs depending on circumstances. However, critics raise concerns that removing legislative oversight may lead to runaway tuition increases, making higher education less accessible for students from lower economic backgrounds. This tension reflects broader societal debates over funding higher education and the balance of oversight versus autonomy in educational institutions.
Notable points of contention within discussions of HB 66 include the implications on financial aid programs, specifically the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). The bill prohibits tuition increases approved post-December 1, 2015, from being covered by this state financial aid program, raising alarm among stakeholders who fear it may disproportionately affect those relying on such assistance. Furthermore, the requirement for institutions to hold public hearings before setting or raising tuition underscores the ongoing concern about transparency and community involvement in decisions that significantly impact students and families.