Tennessee House Bill HB2132

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 4, relative to the Tennessee reconnect grant.

Impact

The passage of HB2132 is expected to have a significant positive impact on educational access for prospective students looking to enter higher education institutions. By reducing the age threshold for eligibility, the bill aims to attract younger participants into additional educational pursuits, thereby fostering a more educated workforce. This change is anticipated to also boost enrollment rates in community colleges and universities across Tennessee.

Summary

House Bill 2132 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically within Title 49, Chapter 4, relating to the Tennessee Reconnect Grant. This legislation proposes adjustments to the eligibility specifications for the grant, particularly altering the age requirement from twenty-three (23) years old to twenty-one (21) years old. The primary goal of this amendment is to enhance accessibility for younger individuals who wish to pursue higher education, thereby expanding the reach of the grant program.

Contention

Despite the generally favorable outlook on the bill, discussions may arise regarding the implications of lowering the age limit for grant eligibility. Some stakeholders might question whether the age reduction will indeed increase overall access or if it could lead to unintended consequences, such as an influx of applicants that could strain existing resources. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the allocation of funding and how effectively it can support the increased number of eligible applicants.