Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2646

Introduced
2/12/24  
Refer
2/12/24  

Caption

Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Higher Education to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to higher education matters.

Impact

The implications of S2646 are significant for state educational policies. With a detailed investigation into existing proposals, the bill intends to address gaps in access to higher education, particularly for low-income students and those from diverse backgrounds. This could lead to the development of new scholarships and financial assistance programs that promote enrollment and retention in post-secondary education, setting a precedent for future funding and policy decisions aimed at fostering inclusivity.

Summary

Senate Bill S2646 aims to investigate and study a number of current Senate documents related to higher education within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The bill focuses on several proposals intended to enhance access to higher education for high school graduates. This legislative effort indicates a broader commitment to improving educational opportunities and equity in higher education across the state. The contents propose various assistance programs, financial aid reforms, and measures for broader scholarship availability, notably aimed at underserved demographics.

Contention

Despite the overall support for enhancing educational access, there could be points of contention surrounding funding allocations and the implementation of these proposed programs. Critics may raise concerns about the efficacy and sustainability of the scholarship programs suggested, as well as potential bureaucratic obstacles in distributing funds efficiently. Discussions may also revolve around prioritizing certain demographics over others within the context of financial aid, which could spark debates on equity and fairness in access to higher education opportunities.

Companion Bills

MA S848

Replaces Establishing the Finish Line Scholarship Program

MA S846

Replaces Relative to UMass tuition credit

MA S836

Replaces Providing access to higher education for high school graduates in the Commonwealth

MA S839

Replaces Assisting low-income students success through work-study

MA S817

Replaces Providing access to higher education for high school graduates in the Commonwealth

MA S837

Replaces To establish the Bridge the Gap Scholarship to universalize access to community colleges

MA S824

Replaces To establish a Master of Library Science assistance program

MA S840

Replaces Relative to the Massachusetts State College Building Authority

MA S842

Replaces Creating a scholarship fund to increase the number of medical providers who are knowledgeable in autism

MA S833

Replaces To require disclosure of conflicts of interests in academic institutions

MA S830

Replaces Protecting students and increasing accountability at Massachusetts colleges and universities

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.