PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB773

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB773

Introduced
3/3/25  

Caption

In the State System of Higher Education, providing for free tuition for school board members.

Impact

If enacted, HB 773 would amend the Public School Code of 1949, specifically adding provisions for free tuition for school board members. The bill mandates that the state identifies eligible courses and maintains an updated list. This is intended to help school board members gain knowledge pertinent to their duties, potentially leading to improved educational governance and outcomes in Pennsylvania. The bill also stipulates annual reporting to ensure transparency and accountability regarding the number of courses taken and funding appropriated.

Summary

House Bill 773 proposes to provide free tuition for school board members attending eligible courses as part of the State System of Higher Education. This legislation aims to encourage school board members to further their education and enhance their capabilities in fulfilling their roles effectively. By waiving tuition fees, the bill seeks to make educational opportunities more accessible to these individuals who govern local school entities, supporting their professional development and decision-making responsibilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 773 appears supportive among education advocates who see value in investing in the education of individuals who have a direct influence on student success and school policies. Supporters argue that well-educated school board members can lead to better educational standards and governance. However, potential concerns may arise about the funding required to support this tuition waiver, especially amidst budget constraints. The conversation around the bill may reflect a broader debate on educational funding and prioritization within state resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the funding mechanisms for the tuition reimbursement mandated by the bill. Lawmakers will need to consider the implications of appropriating sufficient funds to cover the tuition costs for eligible courses each year. Additionally, there may be discussions on the definition of 'eligible courses' and how this may be perceived by local educational institutions. While the intent of the bill is to strengthen local governance through education, debate may center on whether this is the best use of state funds.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB264

In the State System of Higher Education, providing for free tuition for school board members.

PA SB1151

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

PA HB2279

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

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 SB1153

In the State System of Higher Education, providing for educational opportunities for foster and adopted children.

PA HB896

In the State Board of Education, further providing for membership.

PA SB1248

Providing for institutions of higher education.

PA SB1057

Providing for the Educational Freedom Act Program; and establishing the Educational Freedom Act Fund and educational freedom accounts.

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 HB2398

In transfers of credits between institutions of higher education, further providing for definitions and for duties of public institutions of higher education, providing for guaranteed admission, for reports to General Assembly and for dispute resolution and further providing for Transfer and Articulation Oversight Committee, for duties of department and for applicability; in higher education accountability and transparency, further providing for definitions and providing for student fee transparency; and providing for institutions of higher education and Dual Credit Innovation and Equity Grant Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.