Tennessee House Bill HB1809

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24
• Refer: 1/22/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 4, Part 7, relative to the Tennessee Promise Scholarship Act of 2014.

Impact

By including for-profit trade schools that are approved by the state board of cosmetology and authorized to offer relevant diploma programs, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities in trades such as cosmetology and barbering. This amendment is expected to facilitate access to vocational training for students who may prefer or require alternatives to traditional higher education institutions, thereby contributing to workforce development in sectors that are in high demand.

Summary

House Bill 1809 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Promise Scholarship Act of 2014, widening the scope of eligible educational institutions for scholarship beneficiaries. Specifically, the bill allows for private, for-profit trade schools that meet certain accreditation standards to qualify for Tennessee Promise scholarships. This change aligns with the statewide goal of increasing access to higher education and vocational training for students across Tennessee.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB1809 appears to be supportive, especially among advocates for vocational education and those seeking to bridge gaps in the workforce. By expanding the eligibility criteria for scholarships, supporters argue that the bill will help diversify educational options for students. However, there may be concerns regarding the quality of education provided by for-profit institutions, with critics potentially questioning whether such schools can adequately prepare students for careers in their respective fields.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may include apprehensions about the implications of allowing for-profit institutions to access state scholarships. Critics might argue that this move could lead to an influx of lower-quality educational offerings, potentially placing student loan burdens on graduates without guaranteeing job placement. Furthermore, discussions could focus on the oversight of these institutions to ensure they meet high educational standards and adequately support students transitioning into the workforce.