Provides relative to tuition amounts at public colleges and universities applicable to nonresident students who are not U.S. citizens (OR SEE FISC NOTE SG RV)
Impact
The proposed changes in HB 487 will impact state laws regarding tuition structures at public colleges and universities, creating a tiered system based on citizenship status. By distinguishing between the tuition amounts for U.S. citizens and non-citizens, the legislation aims to increase revenue from international students. This shift could affect enrollment figures and the diversity of student populations, as higher tuition rates may deter some nonresident students from applying.
Summary
House Bill 487 aims to amend the tuition rates applied to nonresident students at public postsecondary institutions in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill mandates that each public postsecondary education management board must establish a tuition amount for nonresident students who are not U.S. citizens. This amount is required to be at least 50% higher than the tuition charged to nonresident students who are U.S. citizens. The implementation of this new rate is designated to take effect no sooner than the Fall semester of 2012.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment surrounding HB 487 appears to lean towards a supportive stance from legislators advocating for tighter fiscal measures and increased funding for education through enhanced tuition fees. Conversely, opponents may view the bill as a discriminatory practice that discourages diversity in higher education and places an undue financial burden on international students seeking education in Louisiana. This has sparked a debate about equity and accessibility in educational opportunities.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns over the long-term implications of such a pricing strategy on Louisiana's reputation as an educational destination. Critics argue that by imposing higher fees on nonresident students, the state risks alienating valuable international student demographics, which contribute significantly to local economies and cultural diversity. Proponents, however, believe that the increased fees are justified and necessary given the financial constraints faced by public colleges.
Relative to tuition and mandatory fee amounts charged at public colleges and universities, provides for a credit for certain amounts paid by a student to the Board of Parole for his parole supervision
Authorizes the La. Community and Technical Colleges System Board of Supervisors to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts at institutions under its supervision and management and permits the uniform imposition of tuition and mandatory fee amounts on a per credit hour basis (RE +$5,300,000 SG RV See Note)
Provides that veterans shall be entitled to resident classification for tuition amount purposes at La. public colleges and universities (OR DECREASE SG RV See Note)
Provides relative to the authority of public postsecondary education management boards to increase tuition and mandatory fee amounts (OR +$257,600,000 SG RV See Note)