Tennessee House Bill HB2756

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

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

Impact

The proposed changes will impact students graduating from both in-state and out-of-state high schools. Notably, the eligibility for Tennessee HOPE scholarships will be broadened for students who have graduated from other state high schools, provided that at least one parent is a resident of Tennessee for the past ten years. This adjustment aims to help integrate students from outside the state into Tennessee's educational framework, while still maintaining a strong emphasis on local residency.

Summary

House Bill 2756 aims to amend certain provisions within the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically regarding financial assistance for students pursuing higher education. This bill seeks to clarify the eligibility criteria for the Tennessee HOPE scholarship and HOPE access grant, focusing on the residency status of students. The amendments are designed to ensure that only students who meet specific criteria related to their high school graduation and parental residency in Tennessee are eligible for these financial aid programs.

Contention

The bill has sparked significant debate among lawmakers and stakeholders in the education sector. Supporters argue that expanding access to financial aid is vital for attracting talent and supporting families with ties to Tennessee. However, opponents raise concerns about the potential dilution of resources for local students, who may feel overlooked in favor of out-of-state applicants. Critics also worry that these changes could complicate the financial aid process and create ambiguities in eligibility determinations.