South Dakota House Bill HB1186

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/22
• Refer: 1/31/22

Caption

Authorize enrolled tribal members to attend certain institutions of higher education without payment of tuition costs.

Impact

By implementing HB 1186, South Dakota seeks to improve access to higher education for tribal members, which may lead to increased enrollment rates and higher educational attainment within Indigenous populations. The bill requires that federal tuition benefits be utilized prior to any state-funded tuition assistance, ensuring that resources are applied efficiently. This could have a significant impact on the financial landscape of higher education for tribal students, potentially alleviating the burden of tuition costs.

Summary

House Bill 1186 aims to provide financial support for enrolled members of federally recognized Indian tribes in South Dakota by allowing them to attend certain institutions of higher education without having to pay tuition costs. The bill specifies that eligible members can access tuition benefits for a duration of one to four academic years, contingent on their admission to an institution controlled by the Board of Regents or a technical college. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance educational opportunities for Native American communities within the state.

Contention

Despite its positive intentions, there may be concerns regarding the bill's practical implications, such as the management of funding and the verification process for federal benefits. Additionally, some legislators may question the allocation of state funds for this purpose, emphasizing the need for transparency in how these financial resources are distributed. The division in support or opposition to the bill, reflected in the committee vote where it was tabled with 12 yeas and 2 nays, suggests that there are varying perspectives on how to best address educational needs for tribal communities.