Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD873

Introduced
2/28/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Engrossed
6/1/23  
Enrolled
6/6/23  

Caption

An Act to Continue the Department of Education Diploma Program Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Impact

The bill seeks to amend existing statutes related to educational diploma eligibility, particularly those addressing students impacted by the pandemic. By extending the eligibility period for students who experienced educational setbacks during this time, LD873 aims to mitigate the long-term adverse effects of the pandemic on students' educational outcomes. This legislation reflects the ongoing recognition of the pandemic's influence on education and the need to provide supportive measures for students as they navigate educational requirements.

Summary

LD873 is a legislative act aimed at extending the Department of Education's diploma program for students affected by interruptions in their education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program allows students in their fourth year of secondary school who have faced significant disruptions in their education to apply for a diploma. The bill was introduced as a response to the expiring provisions set to lapse on September 1, 2023, ensuring that affected students could still have access to diploma opportunities until 2026.

Sentiment

The sentiment around LD873 has been largely supportive, as it caters to the needs of students who faced unprecedented challenges during their educational journey. Educators, advocates, and lawmakers have largely viewed this bill as a necessary intervention that underscores the importance of accommodating students' unique circumstances brought on by the pandemic. Given the urgency of the legislation, the general consensus appears to favor continued support for impacted students.

Contention

While LD873 has generally received support, discussions around the bill may involve differing opinions regarding the duration of the extension and the criteria for eligibility. Some may express concerns about potential misuse of the provisions or debate the implications of extending the program until 2026, questioning whether it's the best approach to assist students or if other measures could be more effective.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD1164

An Act to Continue the Department of Education Diploma Program Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic

ME LD628

An Act Regarding Eligibility to Apply for a Department of Education Diploma

ME HB06556

An Act Addressing Issues Created By The Covid-19 Pandemic On Public Education In Connecticut.

ME AB1350

Retroactive grant of high school diplomas: COVID-19 crisis.

ME HCR164

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Education In Public Schools To Address Learning Loss Caused By The Covid-19 Pandemic.

ME HR164

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Education In Public Schools To Address Learning Loss Caused By The Covid-19 Pandemic.

ME LD3

An Act to Establish the Winter Energy Relief Payment Program to Aid Residents with High Heating Costs and to Finalize the COVID Pandemic Relief Payment Program

ME LD1

An Act to Provide Funding for Winter Emergency Energy Relief and to Finalize the COVID Pandemic Relief Payment Program

ME SB1306

Relating to the creation of a COVID-19 Health Equity Task Force and state agency response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

ME HB20

Provides relative to income tax deduction for certain educational expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic (Item #26) (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.