Maryland House Bill HB1129

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/23
• Refer: 2/10/23

Caption

Maryland Higher Education Outreach and College Access Program – Funding

Impact

This bill is significant in redefining the state's commitment to educational equity by directly targeting financial support for college access initiatives. By ensuring a set allocation of state funds, the bill aims to sustain programs that provide vital resources and outreach services for students from low-income backgrounds. The grant program created under the bill will allow nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to support targeted outreach, thereby increasing the chances for these students to enroll and thrive in higher education institutions.

Summary

House Bill 1129 seeks to enhance funding for the Maryland Higher Education Outreach and College Access Program. The legislation mandates that the Governor includes a certain appropriation in the annual state budget specifically aimed at bolstering programs designed to assist low-income high school students in accessing and succeeding in college. The bill outlines the establishment of a funding model that fosters collaboration between state agencies and nonprofit organizations to improve educational outcomes.

Contention

One notable area of discussion surrounding this bill involves the sufficiency of the allocated funding. While the proposal includes significant funding increases over subsequent fiscal years, some legislators and stakeholders may question whether these amounts will truly meet the needs of the intended beneficiaries, given the rising costs of higher education. Furthermore, ensuring that nonprofit organizations can effectively apply for and utilize these funds will be crucial for the bill's success. The potential bureaucratic requirements, such as data reporting and matching fund requirements, could also be points of contention among organizations that serve these communities.