Makes supplemental appropriation of $1.5 million to provide tuition assistance for students enrolled at Thomas Edison State University.
Impact
The implementation of S2590 is expected to significantly enhance access to higher education for non-traditional students who often face financial barriers. By allocating funds specifically for need-based financial aid, the bill aims to level the educational playing field for individuals who may have been underserved by the existing financial aid structure. The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority will be responsible for establishing eligibility criteria and determining award amounts in consultation with the university.
Summary
Senate Bill S2590 aims to provide supplemental funding to support students attending Thomas Edison State University by appropriating $1.5 million for tuition assistance. This initiative is particularly focused on students who do not qualify for traditional forms of state tuition aid, including Tuition Aid Grants. The bill was sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner and received bipartisan support before its passage through the Senate.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding S2590 appeared largely supportive among legislators, with an evident recognition of the need for expanded access to educational opportunities. The bill's approval, without any opposing votes during its final passage, underscores a shared belief in the importance of investing in education as a means to promote workforce development and economic growth in the state. This is indicative of a growing trend towards prioritizing educational funding in state budgets.
Contention
While there was general consensus in favor of S2590, discussions revealed some points of contention regarding how funds are to be allocated and what criteria will be set for need-based awards. Critics raised concerns about ensuring that the financial aid effectively reaches those most in need, and how it would interact with existing financial support mechanisms. However, these issues did not prevent the successful passage of the bill, as legislators acknowledged the urgency of supporting students navigating financial challenges as they pursue their education.
Makes supplemental appropriation of $20 million for provision of Summer Tuition Aid Grants in summer 2025; provides conditional authority for transfer of additional resources to Summer Tuition Aid Grants account.
Makes supplemental appropriation of $20 million for provision of Summer Tuition Aid Grants in summer 2025; provides conditional authority for transfer of additional resources to Summer Tuition Aid Grants account.
Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Provides supplemental appropriation of $20 million for loan redemption program and tuition reimbursement program for certain teachers of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.