Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB676

Introduced
3/23/23  

Caption

Providing for Affordability of College Education Scholarship Program.

Impact

The bill includes specific eligibility criteria for scholarship recipients, such as a household income ceiling of 400% of the Federal poverty level, full-time enrollment, and completion of the FAFSA. By prioritizing students with lower income levels for awards, the program seeks to address financial inequities and support those who may struggle with educational expenses. Furthermore, it stipulates that awarded scholarship funds should not be classified as taxable income, allowing recipients to benefit from the full extent of their financial support.

Summary

House Bill 676, referred to as the Affordability of College Education Scholarship Program, aims to enhance access to higher education funding in Pennsylvania. This legislation proposes the establishment of a scholarship program designed to assist eligible students in covering the costs associated with attending college, including tuition, fees, and other related expenses. The program intends to alleviate financial barriers for students, particularly those from lower-income households, thus promoting higher education enrollment and retention.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 676 is generally positive among advocates for education equity, as it is viewed as a proactive step to make higher education more affordable. Supporters argue that increased funding for scholarships plays a crucial role in providing opportunities for all students, regardless of their financial background. However, there may also be concerns regarding the allocation of funds for administrative costs versus direct student support, highlighting a potential area of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders.

Contention

One notable aspect of the bill pertains to the oversight and administration of the program, with established responsibilities for the Department of Education and the State system. This introduces considerations regarding the effectiveness of fund distribution and adherence to accountability standards. Critics may question whether the management framework will sufficiently address the needs of students and adequately promote the program's objectives without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1150

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and providing for Grow Pennsylvania Merit Scholarship Program; providing for institutions of higher education, for Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship Grant Program and for intercollegiate athletics; in ready-to-succeed scholarship, further providing for agency; and making a repeal.

PA HB2593

Virginia College Access and Affordability Scholarship Fund; established, report.

PA HB1886

Providing for the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program; prescribing powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; providing for scholarships for tuition and fees, scholarships for room and board and aid for adult reeducation; and establishing the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program Fund.

PA SB315

Providing for the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program; prescribing powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency; providing for scholarships for tuition and fees, scholarships for room and board and aid for adult reeducation; and establishing the Pennsylvania Promise Pilot Program Fund.

PA HB514

Providing for individual empowerment scholarship accounts; and establishing the Pennsylvania Empowerment Scholarship Accounts Program, the Department of Education Empowerment Scholarship Fund and the State Treasurer Empowerment Scholarship Fund.

PA SB263

Providing for military education scholarship account; and imposing penalties.

PA SB304

Providing for military education scholarship account; and imposing penalties.

PA HB688

Establishing the PA Teacher Pipeline Scholarship Program; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and certain institutions of higher education.

PA SB1151

In the State System of Higher Education, further providing for definitions and establishing the Grow Pennsylvania Merit Scholarship Program.

PA SB1248

Providing for institutions of higher education.

Similar Bills

WV SB546

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UT HB0341

Higher Education Revisions

WV HB5153

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KS SB438

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WV HB4316

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WV HB3225

To create an initiative to provide minorities and males with an incentive to join the public education field

WV HB3411

To create an initiative to provide minorities and males with an incentive to join the public education field

NC H420

Expand & Consolidate K-12 Scholarships