Virginia House Bill HJR61

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

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

Caption

Higher ed. institutions, baccalaureate public; SCHEV to study $10,000 tuition per year degree.

Impact

If implemented, the findings from this study could lead to significant changes in the funding model for higher education in Virginia. The research will examine how such a tuition structure would affect enrollment, the financial viability of public institutions, and the broader implications for the state's economy. The goal is to lower student debt levels, making higher education more accessible and potentially increasing the number of degrees conferred in the state, which is essential for workforce development and economic growth.

Summary

HJR61 proposes a study by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to assess the feasibility of allowing students to pay $10,000 annually for tuition and mandatory fees at public baccalaureate institutions. This initiative arises from the rising costs of higher education, which have increased by an average of 4.4% annually from the 2014 to 2023 fiscal years. The bill aims to address the financial burden on students, who on average graduate with significant debt, impacting their future financial stability and access to educational opportunities.

Contention

The proposal is likely to spark debate regarding the sources of funding for this tuition model and whether public institutions can sustain such a change without compromising educational quality or services. Critics may raise concerns about the financial implications for the state government and the potential limits on institutional autonomy regarding tuition setting. The study's outcomes will need to consider administrative responses from institutions and the balance between affordability, educational standards, and operational sustainability.