AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 9 and Title 49, relative to funding for federal land-grant institutions of higher education.
Impact
The implementation of HB2219 is poised to significantly impact funding dynamics for HBCUs in Tennessee, particularly those classified as 1890 land-grant institutions. By doubling the state's contribution to federal funding, the bill aims to enhance the financial resources available to these institutions, which historically have seen lower levels of funding compared to their counterparts. While the bill does not automatically appropriate funds, it sets a framework for increased financial support contingent upon future appropriations by the General Assembly.
Summary
House Bill 2219 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting funding for federal land-grant institutions of higher education in the state. The bill proposes a matching fund provision whereby the state will match federal appropriations made to land-grant institutions designated under federal law that are recognized as historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This match by the state will be at a rate that is double what is required by the federal government for these institutions to receive federal funds.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB2219 may arise from concerns regarding the state’s budgetary commitments and the potential for inequities in funding allocation among different higher education institutions. Some might argue that while the bill seeks to uplift HBCUs, it could divert funds from other educational initiatives or institutions within the state. Additionally, there may be discussions around the effectiveness of such matching funds and whether they truly enhance the educational landscape for minority students, or whether alternative funding solutions might better address the challenges faced by these institutions.
Crossfiled
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 9 and Title 49, relative to funding for federal land-grant institutions of higher education.