Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon House Bill HB2802

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/16/23  
Refer
3/13/23  
Refer
3/13/23  
Report Pass
6/9/23  
Engrossed
6/15/23  
Refer
6/15/23  
Report Pass
6/20/23  
Enrolled
6/23/23  
Passed
7/31/23  
Chaptered
8/15/23  

Caption

Relating to post-secondary students working at nonprofit corporations; and declaring an emergency.

Impact

Upon implementation, the bill will allow participating universities to subsidize wages paid to students working at eligible nonprofits, limited to 50% of employment costs. Funding for the pilot program will stem from appropriations allocated by the state legislative assembly, amounting to approximately $294,206 for the biennium. This financial support reflects the state’s commitment to fostering job opportunities for students while simultaneously assisting nonprofit organizations that often operate on tight budgets.

Summary

House Bill 2802 (HB2802) is designed to establish a pilot program that enhances the hiring of students from Portland State University and Eastern Oregon University by eligible nonprofit organizations. The bill aims to ease the financial burden of higher education by reducing tuition costs for participating students. Under the provisions of the pilot program, enrolled students who work with nonprofit organizations can have their tuition reduced by 20%, which is intended to incentivize student employment in roles relevant to their fields of study. This program is seen as a strategic response to support both student financial needs and the operation capabilities of local nonprofits.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2802 has been largely positive among lawmakers and educational institutions, who view the legislation as an important step towards increasing student employment opportunities while addressing tuition affordability. However, there are also concerns about the program’s sustainability and the potential over-reliance on funding from the state treasury. Stakeholders, including educational administrators and nonprofit leaders, have expressed a desire to see the outcomes of the pilot program evaluated rigorously to ensure its effectiveness and efficiency.

Contention

There remains a degree of contention around the long-term viability of the program, particularly regarding the funding allocated and its dependence on state appropriations. Critics of the bill worry that should state funds wane, the program may not be able to sustain its objectives of providing meaningful employment and financial relief for students. Additionally, some have raised questions about the appropriateness of engaging students in nonprofit work, speculating whether it could detract from their academic commitments. The bill is set to be evaluated annually, which will help in determining its impact and future directions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR HB3185

Relating to post-secondary students working at nonprofit corporations; declaring an emergency.

OR HB3120

Relating to higher education; declaring an emergency.

OR SB572

Relating to post-secondary education for individuals with disabilities; declaring an emergency.

OR SB977

Relating to post-secondary education for individuals with disabilities; declaring an emergency.

OR SB1522

Relating to education; and declaring an emergency.

OR HB4119

Relating to student athletes; and declaring an emergency.

OR SB1545

Relating to workforce development; and declaring an emergency.

OR HB2873

Relating to post-secondary student financial aid; declaring an emergency.

OR SB1505

Relating to student athletes; and declaring an emergency.

OR HB2961

Relating to funding post-secondary education; and declaring an emergency.

Similar Bills

CA SB650

Alcoholic beverage licensees: events: sponsorship and participation.

LA HB839

Provides a limitation of liability for certain facilities operated by nonprofit youth organizations

LA HB706

Provides a limitation of liability for certain facilities operated by nonprofit youth organizations

CA AB653

Joint powers agreements: County of Santa Barbara: nonprofit hospitals.

CA AB545

Joint powers agreements: County of El Dorado: nonprofit hospitals.

CA AB2484

Educational facilities: California Educational Facilities Authority.

CA AB635

Postsecondary education: California Educational Facilities Authority.

CA AB2272

Postsecondary education: California Educational Facilities Authority.