Provides relative to scholarships for children of certain law enforcement officers and other investigative employees killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. (gov sig) (EN DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Impact
The bill's passage signifies a reaffirmation of support for the families of law enforcement personnel who sacrifice their lives or well-being for public safety. By allowing scholarships to cover not just full-time attendance but also part-time courses, SB 90 acknowledges the varying circumstances of students while enhancing their educational opportunities. This legislative change is an extension of existing benefits, ensuring that educational financial support aligns more closely with the needs of students from these families.
Summary
Senate Bill 90 focuses on providing scholarships for the children of law enforcement officers and certain investigative employees who have been killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The bill amends existing statutes to ensure that children of eligible officers can attend college or university without incurring costs for tuition, books, and other required educational materials. Moreover, it allows these scholarships to be utilized for part-time attendance, expanding access to education for affected families.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 90 is predominantly positive, emphasizing community support for the families of public servants. Legislators and advocates who backed the bill viewed it as a critical means to honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and to assist their families in attaining higher education. The unanimous support in the Senate vote reflects a strong bipartisan agreement on the importance of this issue.
Contention
While the discussions around SB 90 were largely supportive, concerns were raised about the potential long-term funding implications associated with providing such scholarships. Some skeptics questioned whether the state would be able to sustain these benefits without impacting other educational funding. However, the consensus was that providing these scholarships is a moral obligation and an essential form of recognition and support for the families of law enforcement officers.
Provides relative to tuition and fee exemptions for children of Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents killed or permanently disabled in the performance of duty (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Creates scholarships for spouses of police officers killed or disabled in performance of duty and police officers injured in performance of duty. (gov sig) (EN DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Education; grants to spouses of law enforcement officers, firefighters, and prison guards who are killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty; provide