South Dakota House Bill HB1188

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

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

Caption

Establish the nonbeneficiary student scholarship program and make an appropriation therefor.

Impact

This bill modifies existing educational funding frameworks by creating a crucial financial support system for nonbeneficiary students attending specific tribal colleges in South Dakota. By introducing this scholarship program, the state aims to enhance educational opportunities for a demographic that might otherwise face financial barriers to higher education. These changes could potentially increase enrollment and graduation rates among nonbeneficiary students in tribal colleges, fostering greater educational equity.

Summary

House Bill 1188 establishes a nonbeneficiary student scholarship program in South Dakota, which is specifically designed to support students who are not enrolled members of federally recognized Indian tribes. The program is administered by the Department of Tribal Relations and aims to help cover some of the costs for students attending tribally controlled institutions of higher education, such as Oglala Lakota College and Sitting Bull College. The scholarship is limited to a maximum of $1,000 per year for each eligible student, and funding is allocated through a general fund appropriation of $49,000.

Contention

Although the bill was supported by various stakeholders who recognize the importance of financial assistance for nonbeneficiary students, some contention arose regarding the potential limitations placed on funding availability. The provision to prorate scholarships if funds are insufficient raises concerns among advocates who worry that not all eligible students will receive adequate support. Additionally, discussions about the overall funding levels for education in tribally controlled institutions could influence the program's effectiveness in achieving its intended goals.