Tennessee House Bill HB0436

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to financial aid.

Impact

The implementation of this bill would facilitate enhanced reporting on financial aid, creating a clearer communication channel between state agencies and the legislative committees overseeing education. By mandating an annual report by March 30 each year, the bill aims to ensure that lawmakers are kept informed about trends, issues, and developments in the area of financial aid that could impact students and educational institutions in Tennessee.

Summary

House Bill 436 aims to amend Title 49 of the Tennessee Code Annotated in relation to financial aid. One of the main changes proposed by this bill is the requirement for the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission to report their findings annually to specified legislative committees. This ensures more oversight and accountability regarding financial aid matters as it pertains to higher education in Tennessee.

Conclusion

Overall, HB0436 represents a step towards improving oversight of financial aid in Tennessee. As it progresses through the legislative process, there will likely be further discussions about the implications of these changes for both state agencies and students relying on financial aid programs.

Contention

While the bill presents an avenue for increased transparency, discussions may arise around the specifics of what the annual report should entail and how it might affect existing processes within the TSAC and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Stakeholders might express concerns regarding the administrative burden of the reporting requirements, especially if they are perceived to be too onerous or if they require additional resources.