To advance fairness, integrity, and excellence in higher education admissions
Impact
If enacted, S1819 will amend Chapter 15A of the Massachusetts General Laws by introducing Section 5B, which outlines regulations concerning admissions practices. This will significantly reform how higher education institutions operate admissions processes by removing preferences based on legacy status and donor relationships. The bill aims to create a more level playing field for applicants, particularly benefiting students from varied socioeconomic backgrounds. The establishment of a Higher Education Opportunity Trust Fund to collect public service fees from non-compliant institutions is also a notable aspect, providing additional financial resources for community colleges.
Summary
S1819, titled 'An Act to advance fairness, integrity, and excellence in higher education admissions,' aims to regulate the admissions processes of higher education institutions in Massachusetts. The bill introduces strict guidelines prohibiting institutions from considering legacy status or connections to donors in admission decisions. It mandates that colleges report their admission practices regarding early decisions and admissions preferences annually to ensure compliance and transparency, with a focus on race and economic backgrounds of admitted students. This information is intended to be publicly available and disaggregated by institution, improving transparency in admissions practices.
Contention
The bill has faced some contention among stakeholders, particularly from institutions concerned about the implications of eliminating legacy admissions and donor preferences. Proponents argue that such measures will enhance fairness and access to education, while opponents caution that these changes may undermine institutional autonomy and could affect fundraising efforts. Moreover, the imposition of substantial public service fees for non-compliant institutions may create financial pressure, particularly for smaller colleges and universities with limited endowment resources.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.