Michigan House Bill HB4955

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/16/25
• Refer: 9/16/25

Caption

Higher education: financial aid; Michigan achievement scholarship; provide for. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4956'25

Impact

If enacted, HB 4955 will significantly impact state education laws by formally creating the Michigan achievement scholarships and establishing guidelines for awarding these funds. The legislation stipulates eligibility criteria for scholarships, focusing on full-time undergraduate students who maintain residency in Michigan and comply with specific academic and financial aid obligations. Notably, the bill also provides that scholarship awards are contingent upon state appropriations, emphasizing the need for sustained financial commitment from the state budget.

Summary

House Bill 4955, known as the 'Michigan Achievement Scholarship Act', proposes the establishment of a financial aid program aimed at supporting certain Michigan residents who are attending eligible postsecondary educational institutions. The bill aims to provide last-dollar scholarships, which ensures that students will receive financial support to cover tuition costs after other forms of aid, including federal Pell grants and other scholarships, have been applied. Additionally, the bill outlines a 'community college guarantee' to create a pathway for eligible residents to attend community college without incurring tuition expenses.

Contention

There are concerns regarding the long-term viability and funding of this scholarship program. Critics argue that relying on state appropriations could lead to unpredictability in scholarship availability from year to year. Furthermore, the bill's requirement for students to apply for and accept all available gift aid could complicate the scholarship process, as students may face barriers in accessing multiple forms of financial support. Stakeholders are concerned that such complexities might deter eligible students from applying for scholarships, thus limiting program success.