Mel's LawThis bill requires institutions of higher education (IHEs) that participate in federal student aid programs to establish policies for awarding posthumous degrees.Specifically, the IHE must certify that it has a policy to award a posthumous degree to a deceased student who (1) was enrolled in a degree program at the IHE; (2) died prior to completing such program; and (3) at the time of death, was in academic standing consistent with the requirements for graduation from such program (as determined by the IHE).The bill prohibits accrediting agencies from taking into consideration the number of posthumous degrees awarded to deceased students by the IHE. (Under current law, an IHE must be accredited by an accrediting agency to participate in federal student aid programs.)
Should this bill be enacted, it would introduce a new standard across educational institutions participating in federal programs. By formalizing a process for awarding posthumous degrees, the legislation would help institutions recognize and memorialize the achievements of students who, due to unforeseen circumstances, were unable to complete their education. This could further enhance a school’s reputation for supporting its students and their families in mourning.
House Bill 468, also known as 'Mel’s Law', seeks to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 by requiring institutions of higher education to establish a policy for awarding posthumous degrees to certain deceased students. Specifically, the bill mandates that these degrees be awarded to students who had been enrolled in a degree program at the time of their death, provided they were in good academic standing. This initiative is aimed at honoring the academic efforts of students who have passed away before completing their degree requirements.
While the bill carries a strong intention to memorialize deceased students, there are potential points of contention related to its implementation. Critics may raise concerns about what constitutes 'good academic standing' and whether institutions might face pressure or scrutiny in awarding these degrees. Additionally, there could be administrative burdens associated with establishing these policies and ensuring compliance with the new requirement, particularly regarding the verification of academic records at the time of death.