Tennessee House Bill HB1114

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 4, relative to the Tennessee reconnect grant.

Impact

If enacted, HB1114 will impact the eligibility criteria for the Tennessee Reconnect Grant. By adjusting the age requirements, the bill intends to expand access to tuition assistance for older students and those who have unconventional educational backgrounds. This expansion is aimed at helping adult learners who may have delayed their education and are now seeking to further their academic or professional careers.

Summary

House Bill 1114 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 49, Chapter 4, relating to the Tennessee Reconnect Grant. The bill proposes changes to the eligibility criteria for students seeking tuition assistance to complete eligible programs of study. One of the key amendments includes establishing age requirements that facilitate access for non-traditional students, particularly those who graduate from high school or obtain a GED before turning 19.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB1114 may have brought up differing viewpoints on the implications of changing age requirements for educational assistance. Proponents likely argue that this inclusion will help support a demographic that has traditionally faced barriers to higher education funding. However, there may be concerns from some stakeholders about whether these changes could lead to potential misuse of the funding or if they adequately address the needs of younger traditional students competing for the same resources.