Utah 2023 Regular Session

Utah House Bill HB0332

Introduced
1/31/23  
Refer
2/3/23  
Report Pass
2/8/23  
Engrossed
2/13/23  
Refer
2/14/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  
Enrolled
3/10/23  

Caption

Fallen Officer Memorial Scholarship Program

Impact

The bill's enactment is expected to enhance the support available for families of fallen heroes, acknowledging their sacrifices and facilitating educational opportunities for their children. By providing financial assistance, the legislation aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by these families during challenging times, promoting educational attainment and career development for the next generation of public safety personnel and community leaders.

Summary

House Bill 0332, known as the Fallen Officer Memorial Scholarship Program, establishes a financial assistance program for the children of public safety officers and firefighters who have died in the line of duty. This bill provides a scholarship of $5,000 per year for up to four years to eligible applicants, aiming to support their education expenses. The program is to be administered by the Department of Public Safety, which will handle the application process and the distribution of funds.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 0332 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with broad support among legislators and community stakeholders. The measure is seen as a meaningful way to honor the bravery of public safety officers and firefighters, and to provide tangible assistance to their families. This positive reception is further encouraged by the clear intent to bolster educational opportunities for those who have sacrificed significantly.

Contention

While generally supported, some might raise concerns about the funding mechanisms for the program, as future appropriations are subject to legislative decisions and budget constraints. There may also be discussions around the adequacy and fairness of the funding amounts provided, as well as the eligibility criteria established by the Department of Public Safety, which some could argue might need further clarity or expansion.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

UT SB0128

Public Safety Officer Scholarship Program

UT SB652

Higher Education - Edward T. Conroy and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program and Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program - Expansion (Officer Keona Holley Public Safety Act)

UT HB0331

Hope Scholarship Program

UT HB0455

Utah Fits All Scholarship Program Amendments

UT SB949

Scholarships and Police Officer Recruitment

UT HB0529

Utah Fits All Scholarship Program Amendments

UT HB574

Higher Education – Edward T. and Mary A. Conroy Memorial Scholarship Program and Jean B. Cryor Memorial Scholarship Program – Alterations

UT HB0287

Advanced Degree Scholarship Program

UT SB1101

Higher Education - Maryland Police Officers and Probation Agents Scholarship Program - Alterations

UT SB0062

Special Needs Opportunity Scholarship Program Amendments

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.