Louisiana House Bill HB985

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/16
• Refer: 4/5/16

Caption

Prohibits requiring students to complete certain financial aid forms as a requirement for graduation

Impact

The implementation of HB 985 could significantly shift the landscape of graduation requirements within Louisiana. By enacting a prohibition against imposing financial aid applications as part of individual graduation plans, the bill potentially increases accessibility to graduation for students who may face difficulties in navigating financial aid. This could encourage more students to finalize their education without the stress of additional administrative tasks that may not correlate with their future plans. The change also highlights a shift towards prioritizing educational opportunities over administrative compliance.

Summary

House Bill 985, introduced by Representative Schroder, aims to mitigate the graduation requirements for high school students by prohibiting the stipulation that they complete certain financial aid applications, including federal student aid and the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students, as a condition for graduation. The bill seeks to ease the burden on students and families by allowing young individuals to complete their education without the added pressure of financial paperwork that may not be immediately beneficial to all students. By removing this requirement, the bill reflects an intention to prioritize educational completion without financial barriers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 985 appears to be largely supportive, with advocates arguing that the bill promotes student welfare by reducing unnecessary hurdles in the graduation process. Proponents believe the bill allows for a more inclusive approach to education, particularly for students disinterested in pursuing college immediately after high school. This perspective suggests a favorable view of both student autonomy and the recognition of diverse pathways following high school graduation, reflecting a broader movement towards flexibility in education policy.

Contention

Despite its supportive sentiment, there are points of contention associated with HB 985. Some critics may argue that minimizing financial aid obligations could have unintended consequences, such as depriving students of important information about financial assistance that could benefit them later. These concerns speak to a broader debate between supporting student independence and ensuring that students are well-informed about available educational funding opportunities that could enhance their post-secondary options.