If successful, this initiative could lead to significant revisions in the existing framework of financial aid for students in Louisiana. The creation of the task force is a proactive measure to ensure that legislative duties align with evolving educational financial landscapes, ensuring students continue to have access to awards for which they qualify. The task force will consist of members from both houses of the legislature, thereby centralizing the review process within a collaborative legislative body, potentially leading to robust policy recommendations that could impact state-level educational funding.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 110 (SCR110) was introduced to create a task force aimed at studying the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). The resolution highlights the need for a comprehensive review of the program’s purpose, history, role in relation to state tuition and fees, and its interaction with other financial assistance programs. With significant changes in Louisiana's educational system over the years, the task force seeks to assess TOPS' long-term viability, especially in light of recent funding challenges where the program was not fully financed in the 2016-2017 academic year.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR110 appears to be generally supportive within the legislative body, as indicated by the unanimous approval during voting (94 yeas, 0 nays). Lawmakers recognize the importance of reviewing TOPS in order to fulfill the state's obligations to its students. There seems to be an overall consensus that the program needs a thorough evaluation to address its inadequacies in funding and operation, suggesting a commitment to improving access to higher education.
Contention
While there seems to be a broad legislative agreement on the necessity of SCR110, potential points of contention may arise regarding the specific recommendations and changes proposed by the task force. Critics of TOPS in the past have raised concerns about its sustainability and effectiveness in achieving equitable access to higher education. The task force's findings could spark discussions on whether the program should continue in its current form, or undergo substantial reforms that align with the financial realities of both the state and its educational institutions.
Creates a task force to study and make recommendations relative to the "evidence based approaches" as required by the "Charter School Demonstration Programs Law".
Creates the Task Force on Career Alignment to study ways to implement education-to-career counseling to assist public college and university students to obtain employment in Louisiana after graduation.