The proposed legislation will allocate a total of $60 million over the biennium, with $30 million designated for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. This funding is aimed at supporting eligible institutions to enhance their academic offerings and student services, thereby contributing to the goal of making higher education more accessible. The grant program is likely to provide a financial safety net for schools that struggle with funding, enabling them to maintain operations and avoid cuts to programs critical for student success.
Summary
Senate File 1702 aims to establish a grant program designed to assist in-need colleges, specifically targeting two-year colleges where at least 25 percent of the student body is eligible for Pell grants. This program, referred to as the GAINS program (Grant Assistance for In-Need Schools), mandates that eligible colleges receive funding of $750 for each Pell grant recipient enrolled. The program is intended to alleviate financial pressures on these institutions and improve educational access for low-income students.
Contention
While the bill appears to be a positive step towards supporting low-income students, potential points of contention may arise regarding the equitable distribution of funds and the criteria for what constitutes an 'in-need' college. Opponents may argue that reliance on Pell grants as a benchmark for eligibility focuses too narrowly on financial aid metrics, neglecting broader factors that might signify a college's need for financial support. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding ensuring that the allocated funds are sufficient and appropriately managed by the institutions to meet their intended purpose.
State grant program parameters modified, restrictions on developmental education in state colleges and universities modified, Office of Higher Education new grant programs created, reports required, and money appropriated.
Default living and miscellaneous expenses allowance for the state higher education grant program authorization; State Grant Plus scholarship to supplement state grant awards establishment; grant programs establishment within the Office of Higher Education; appropriating money
Default living and miscellaneous expenses allowance increased for the state grant program, new State Grant Plus scholarship established to supplement state grant awards, Office of Higher Education grant programs created, and money appropriated.