Louisiana House Bill HCR21

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/14
• Refer: 3/13/14
• Report Pass: 4/30/14
• Engrossed: 5/13/14
• Refer: 5/14/14
• Report Pass: 5/26/14
• Passed: 5/28/14

Caption

Requests that the Board of Regents study the feasibility of implementing a college tuition program that would allow students to pay tuition after leaving college

Impact

The proposed program could significantly alter how tuition and education funding are structured in Louisiana. By linking tuition payment to graduates' incomes, the plan is designed to relieve students from immediate debt burdens, encouraging them to pursue careers that align more closely with their skills and interests rather than solely for income. Over time, this model could create a self-sustaining public higher education trust fund, allowing future generations to benefit from this arrangement. The higher education funding landscape in Louisiana could shift towards more innovative approaches, with potential long-term implications on student enrollment and financial accessibility.

Summary

HCR21 is a resolution that urges and requests the Board of Regents of Louisiana to study the feasibility of implementing a college tuition program reminiscent of the 'Pay It Forward' model. This initiative aims to allow students to attend college without having to pay upfront tuition and fees. Instead, graduates would contribute a small, fixed percentage of their income after finishing their education. The intent is to put less financial pressure on students from lower and middle-class families, addressing concerns about affordability in higher education due to declining state funding and budget cuts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR21 appears to be generally positive, with an appreciation for the innovative approach to funding higher education. However, it also acknowledges the controversies associated with such a model, particularly regarding the sustainability of a trust fund over time and the potential for varying levels of income-based contributions affecting program viability. The resolution may provide a progressive pathway in addressing education funding but raises questions among budget experts regarding state financial commitments and priorities.

Contention

Notable contentions regarding HCR21 might stem from concerns over reliance on income-based repayments and the long-term feasibility of the 'Pay It Forward' model. Critics might argue about the practicality of collecting payments over time and whether the proposed contributions would suffice for sustaining future students' education. Others may raise questions about fairness in repayment structures, especially if graduates earn differing incomes. The discourse around this resolution could lead to significant discussions on alternative education funding models and their implications for state policies.