South Dakota 2025 Regular Session

South Dakota House Bill HB1040

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/23/25  
Refer
1/27/25  
Refer
2/5/25  
Report Pass
2/24/25  
Engrossed
2/25/25  
Refer
2/26/25  
Enrolled
3/6/25  

Caption

Reduce the state's contribution to a subsidized high school dual credit program.

Impact

The bill's impact is notable as it potentially aligns the financial responsibilities of students and school districts more closely with state contributions. By restricting the funding provision, it may place a greater burden on families and local school districts to cover the remainder of the tuition costs. This could result in reduced participation in dual credit courses, which are crucial for students seeking to earn college credits early and thus accelerate their post-secondary education.

Summary

House Bill 1040 is centered on the state's financial contribution to a subsidized high school dual credit program in South Dakota. The bill aims to amend existing legislation, specifically ยง 13-28-37.1, by reducing the state's fiscal commitment to this educational initiative. Under the proposed terms, the state will only cover half of the high school dual credit tuition rates, which are calculated at 43% of the undergraduate tuition rate set by the Board of Regents. This change is anticipated to affect students in grades eleven and twelve who are seeking college-level coursework while still in high school.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1040 appears to be mixed among stakeholders. Advocates for the bill may argue that by reducing state contributions, resources can be allocated elsewhere in the education system, thereby promoting efficiency. However, educators and advocates for student access to education may express concerns over the reduced financial support, fearing it could limit educational opportunities for high school students, particularly those from lower-income families.

Contention

Critics of the bill point to the potential repercussions on access to dual credit courses, suggesting that the changes might disenfranchise students who are already struggling with educational costs. The reduction in state funding could limit the availability of programs that allow students to earn college credits, leading to increased disparities in educational outcomes. The debate continues over whether the state should maintain its investment in dual credit programs or if fiscal austerity measures justify these cuts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD HB1122

Authorize the participation of tenth grade students in the dual credit program.

SD SB1

Expand eligibility for the reduced tuition benefit for certain school district and Head Start employees at Board of Regents institutions to school counselors.

SD SB118

Expand eligibility for certain teachers who receive reduced tuition at Board of Regents institutions.

SD SB182

Establish a uniform method for calculating high school credit received from completing postsecondary courses.

SD HB1253

Permit nonaccredited schools to participate in the partners in education tax credit program.

SD SB2

Remove provisions for establishing a uniform method for calculating high school credit received from completing a postsecondary course.

SD SB94

Amend provisions pertaining to the partners in education tax credit program.

SD HB1250

Provide for the creation and use of South Dakota educational empowerment accounts.

SD HB1039

Revise certain provisions regarding the payment of tuition for members of the South Dakota National Guard.

SD HB1233

Expand the provision of online education through the South Dakota Virtual School.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.