Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB990

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/25/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

University of Wisconsin System tuition grant program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The introduction of AB990 is bound to impact state laws concerning higher education funding. By creating a structured grant program, this legislation seeks to enhance accessibility to higher education for students from lower-income households, defined as having a federal adjusted gross income not exceeding $60,000 annually. This move is anticipated to bridge the financial hurdle faced by qualifying students, particularly those attending institutions other than the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Summary

Assembly Bill 990 establishes a new tuition promise grant program within the University of Wisconsin System. The bill's primary aim is to provide financial support to underprivileged students by offering 'last-dollar awards'. These grants will cover the gap between any external scholarships or grants and the overall tuition and segregated fees for eligible students during their first eight semesters of study for incoming freshmen and four semesters for incoming transfer students. Notably, summer terms are excluded from this program's funding, thus ensuring support is concentrated on the academic year.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a progressive step towards making higher education more accessible, it may evoke contention regarding the limitations of eligibility. Critics might argue that income thresholds could still leave many deserving students underserved, particularly those just above the $60,000 threshold. Moreover, the exclusion of summer term funding could raise concerns among students who wish to accelerate their academic progress. The effectiveness of the program would depend greatly on its implementation and the rules developed by the Board of Regents, which may face scrutiny from various stakeholders.