Louisiana House Bill HB367

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/14/16

Caption

Reduces the amount of a student's Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) award according to need-based financial aid, that can be applied to tuition

Impact

If enacted, this legislation will apply only to future high school graduates, meaning those who graduate prior to the 2019-20 school year will not be affected by this reduction. The modification is intended to preserve the integrity of the TOPS program, allowing it to continue benefiting students while addressing concerns about the distribution of state funds amid rising costs of higher education. It is likely to shift how students plan for college financing, potentially causing some to seek additional scholarships or grants to bridge funding gaps.

Summary

House Bill 367 proposes a modification to the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) by introducing a reduction in awards based on the recipient's need-based financial aid. Specifically, the bill stipulates that students graduating from high school during or after the 2019-20 academic year will see their TOPS award amount reduced by the amount of any need-based financial aid they receive that is allocable to tuition expenses. This change aims to ensure that TOPS funds are utilized efficiently and that state resources are directed towards students who are most in need of financial support.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 367 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the proposed changes are a necessary adjustment in light of evolving financial aid landscapes, particularly as need-based scholarships have increased significantly in recent years. They contend that it is fair for students receiving financial aid to have their TOPS awards adjusted accordingly. Conversely, opponents express concerns that reducing these awards could discourage low-income students from pursuing higher education due to fears of insufficient funding.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding the bill revolves around access to education and equity. Critics fear that the implementation of this change may disproportionately impact low-income students who rely heavily on financial aid and may not be able to fully cover tuition costs even with TOPS support. The debate raises broader questions about the state’s commitment to accessible education and the evolving landscape of financial assistance for students in Louisiana.