Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB140

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/23
• Refer: 3/31/23
• Report Pass: 10/19/23
• Refer: 10/19/23
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Report Pass: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The Minnesota-Wisconsin tuition reciprocity agreement and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The implications of AB140 on state laws are significant, particularly as they pertain to inter-state educational agreements. By formalizing a tuition reciprocity agreement, the bill aims to enhance access to higher education for residents in both states. This initiative is expected to simplify enrollment processes for students living in Minnesota wishing to attend colleges in Wisconsin and vice versa, which could lead to increased enrollment figures and diversified student bodies in participating institutions.

Summary

Assembly Bill 140 focuses on the Minnesota-Wisconsin tuition reciprocity agreement, establishing stipulations for nonresident tuition waivers and fees for residents enrolling in public institutions across both states. Under this bill, the University of Wisconsin System is mandated to enter, administer, and renegotiate a tuition reciprocity arrangement with Minnesota, ensuring equitable financial contributions and a balanced fee structure for students of both states. The bill emphasizes that all tuition revenues collected from Minnesota students must be allocated appropriately to specific UW System accounts to fund authorized expenditures relating to this agreement.

Contention

While proponents argue that AB140 will foster greater educational opportunities and cooperation between Wisconsin and Minnesota, potential points of contention may arise surrounding the funding and operational logistics of the agreement. Critics may express concerns about the financial burdens on Wisconsin's educational budget and the adequacy of compensation from Minnesota for services rendered, particularly if there is an imbalance in student enrollments. Furthermore, discussions around the equity of tuition rates and how they are determined may also surface during legislative debates.