PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB753

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB753

Introduced
5/12/25  

Caption

Establishing the Put Down Roots PA Pilot Program; and providing for duties of Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

Impact

If enacted, SB753 would create a structured program intended to boost participation and success rates in higher education across Pennsylvania. By allocating resources and establishing a framework for this pilot program, the bill can potentially lead to increased enrollment numbers and improved educational outcomes for students. The program will aim to connect students with relevant support services, scholarships, and mentoring opportunities, ultimately enhancing the educational landscape and contributing to the state’s workforce development.

Summary

SB753 aims to establish the Put Down Roots PA Pilot Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. The primary goal of this bill is to enhance support for individuals pursuing higher education by providing them with necessary resources and assistance. This initiative is focused on fostering student engagement and retention, particularly among underserved populations who may face barriers to accessing higher education opportunities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB753 appears to be positive, especially among educational advocates and organizations focused on increasing access to higher education. Supporters view the pilot program as a crucial step forward in addressing educational inequalities and improving student success. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the program's implementation and the adequacy of funding to ensure its success, which could stir debate among legislators.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB753 include questions about its funding and the specific metrics that will be used to measure the program's effectiveness. Critics may argue that without a clear assessment plan and sufficient financial resources, the pilot program could fall short of its intended goals. Additionally, there may be discussions about the potential scaling of the program beyond the pilot phase and how to ensure equitable access to its benefits across diverse communities within the state.

Latest SB753 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1093

Establishing the Put Down Roots PA Pilot Program; and providing for duties of Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

PA HB1350

Establishing the Behavioral Welfare Educational Loan Lenience Program; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

PA HB2168

Establishing the New Nursing Faculty Grant Program; providing for duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; and making an appropriation.

PA HB688

Establishing the PA Teacher Pipeline Scholarship Program; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and certain institutions of higher education.

PA HB1886

Providing for the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program; prescribing powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; providing for scholarships for tuition and fees, scholarships for room and board and aid for adult reeducation; and establishing the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program Fund.

PA SB315

Providing for the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program; prescribing powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; providing for scholarships for tuition and fees, scholarships for room and board and aid for adult reeducation; and establishing the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program Fund.

PA HB827

Providing for Delayed Payment Plan Program; establishing the Delayed Payment Plan Program Fund; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

PA HB725

Establishing the Mental Health Professional Student Loan Forgiveness Program; imposing powers and duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; and making an appropriation.

PA HB1630

Establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Office of New Pennsylvanians Restricted Account; and establishing the Advisory Committee to Office of New Pennsylvanians and providing for its powers, duties and membership.

PA SB1150

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and providing for Grow Pennsylvania Merit Scholarship Program; providing for institutions of higher education, for Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program and for intercollegiate athletics; in ready-to-succeed scholarship, further providing for agency; and making a repeal.

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