Colorado 2024 Regular Session

Colorado House Bill HB1405

Introduced
3/25/24  
Introduced
3/25/24  
Report Pass
3/27/24  
Refer
3/25/24  
Report Pass
3/27/24  
Engrossed
4/1/24  
Refer
3/27/24  
Engrossed
4/1/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
4/1/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Engrossed
4/11/24  
Refer
4/3/24  
Engrossed
4/12/24  
Engrossed
4/11/24  
Engrossed
4/12/24  
Passed
4/18/24  
Enrolled
4/12/24  

Caption

Higher Education Special Education Services Funding Medicaid Match

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 1405 will have a direct impact on state financial appropriations for higher education services, particularly as it relates to student financial assistance. The bill modifies existing funding statutes to allow for a reallocation of resources, which may affect the operational budgets of institutions involved. These adjustments reflect a growing need for specialized healthcare services within educational communities, particularly in light of the ongoing effects of the pandemic on healthcare funding.

Summary

House Bill 1405 aims to address the funding for specialty education programs at various institutions such as area technical colleges and local district colleges in Colorado. Specifically, the bill seeks to utilize increased funding received through the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act to enhance health services at the University of Colorado. The legislation, while addressing significant financial needs, includes provisions for reducing certain appropriations, particularly for need-based grants to the Department of Higher Education in the upcoming fiscal years.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment toward HB 1405 appears to reflect a consensus on the importance of securing additional funding for educational institutions; however, there are concerns related to the reduction in appropriations for need-based grants. Supporters advocate for the bill's potential to substantially enhance health services accessibility, while critics express worries about the implications of decreasing financial assistance for students who rely on these funds to support their education. This juxtaposition illustrates the ongoing balancing act within educational policy between resource allocation and student support.

Contention

One notable point of contention arises from the bill's approach to reducing appropriations linked to financial assistance for students. While it ostensibly aims to increase funding for essential services, there are concerns that cutting grants may disproportionately affect lower-income students and the accessibility of higher education. Additionally, the bill's reliance on federal funding tied to specific programs might raise questions regarding sustainability and the potential future implications for state law should federal support wane.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CO HB1231

State Funding for Higher Education Projects

CO SB127

Special Education Funding

CO SB039

Funding For Educational Opportunities

CO HB1436

Funding special education.

CO SB099

Special Education Funding

CO HB1186

Department of Higher Education Supplemental

CO SB0194

Higher Education Funding Amendments

CO HB1294

Special Education Services In Charter Schools

CO SB225

Specialty Education Colorado State University Medical School Partnership

CO SB5311

Concerning special education funding formula.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.