Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1046

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

University of Wisconsin System and technical college tuition remissions for and grants to support foster care and other out-of-home care placement students and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The bill establishes financial support mechanisms for former foster youth by providing tuition remissions and requiring the distribution of $120,000 in grants for higher education programs. This initiative seeks to alleviate financial burdens faced by students who have had unstable living situations and to improve educational outcomes for individuals who are often at a significant disadvantage in pursuing higher education.

Summary

Senate Bill 1046 mandates the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and the technical college district boards to provide tuition remissions for specific students who have experienced foster care or other out-of-home placements. Eligible individuals include those who were in such placements on their 18th birthday, were adopted or appointed a nonagency guardian after age 13, or had been in out-of-home care for at least a year thereafter returning to live with their parents. Through this legislation, the state aims to promote access to higher education for these vulnerable populations.

Contention

Some concerns may arise regarding the financial implications of this legislation, particularly how the tuition remissions and grants will be funded and whether they are sufficient to meet demands. Critics might argue about the long-term sustainability of the financial provisions outlined in the bill. Additionally, potential administrative challenges could emerge related to the implementation and verification of eligibility criteria for the tuition remission and grant programs. By providing educational benefits to a group that often faces systemic challenges, the bill aims to create a supportive pathway to stability and success for former foster youth.