Louisiana House Bill HR112

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/18/18
• Refer: 4/19/18
• Report Pass: 5/1/18
• Passed: 5/10/18

Caption

Requests that the Louisiana Community and Technical College System develop a pilot scholarship program for certain adults

Impact

The proposal explicitly signals a shift towards enhancing education and skills development for adults, as half of Louisiana's working-age population currently holds only a high school diploma or less. This initiative could significantly impact the state's long-term economic growth by helping to transition underemployed or unemployed individuals into a skilled workforce. Furthermore, HR112 outlines that the program should not be funded by state appropriations; instead, it will rely on private contributions or the reallocation of existing financial aid programs. This budgeting strategy underscores the resolution's commitment to solutions that leverage community resources rather than placing additional financial burdens on state finances.

Summary

House Resolution 112 (HR112) aims to encourage the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, in collaboration with the Board of Regents and the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, to develop a pilot scholarship program. This initiative targets working-age adults who possess an alternative high school diploma and have achieved a minimum score of seventeen on the ACT. The core purpose of the resolution is to promote greater access to postsecondary education to fill high-demand and high-paying occupations in the state, addressing a workforce skills gap among Louisiana's adults. The resolution draws attention to the current economic landscape, highlighting that many in this demographic lack the necessary education beyond high school.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR112 appears positive among those advocating for workforce development and education accessibility. Proponents view the scholarship pilot as a practical step towards not only enhancing individual job prospects but also responding to critical labor market needs. Comments from various stakeholders indicate a hopeful outlook as they emphasize the importance of educational opportunities in securing a more diverse and capable workforce. However, as the bill necessitates cooperation between several educational bodies, the execution will be crucial in determining its success and acceptance among educational institutions and potential recipients.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, notable points of contention may arise concerning the bill's implementation. Critics could argue that relying solely on private funding for the program limits accessibility and may not guarantee the necessary resources for its success. Additionally, questions may be raised about the adequacy of outreach efforts to ensure that the intended audience—those in need of educational advancement—are effectively informed and engaged in the program. There might also be discussions around the adequacy of scholarships in meeting the full costs of education in an era where higher education expenses continue to rise.