Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB0833

Introduced
1/30/23  
Engrossed
3/25/24  
Enrolled
4/24/24  
Passed
5/6/24  

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

Impact

The passage of SB 833 is expected to influence state laws by integrating non-degree credentials into the framework of postsecondary education funding and support. With specific amendments to existing laws, the bill allows for funding eligibility for QNDCs, signaling a potential shift in how workforce training programs are recognized and financially supported. This could significantly alter the landscape of higher education in Tennessee, catering more directly to the needs of the job market and providing students with viable, practical pathways to employment.

Summary

Senate Bill 833, an act to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding higher education, aims to enhance the workforce development initiatives within the state. The bill introduces the concept of a 'Quality Non-Degree Credential' (QNDC), which indicates the successful completion of a workforce training program that can lead to in-demand occupations. This shift highlights a growing recognition of alternative pathways to career readiness, expanding opportunities for students to acquire new skills critical for jobs in high-demand sectors.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 833 has been largely positive, particularly among lawmakers and educational institutions that advocate for innovative approaches to workforce development. Proponents argue that the bill will facilitate better alignment between education and labor market needs, ultimately benefiting the state’s economy. However, there may be underlying concerns about the adequacy of support and recognition for such programs, as some critics worry that focusing predominantly on non-degree paths could undermine traditional degree programs.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB 833 raised important points of contention, especially regarding the balance between traditional higher education pathways and emerging workforce training options. While supporters emphasize the need for diverse educational routes tailored to meet specific job demands, opponents might question the potential dilution of academic standards or the risk of marginalizing degree programs. As Tennessee moves forward with these changes, ongoing dialogue will be essential to ensure that the interests of all students are considered.

Companion Bills

TN HB0869

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

Previously Filed As

TN SB1312

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 49, Chapter 4 and Title 49, Chapter 7, relative to higher education.

TN HB1324

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 49, Chapter 4 and Title 49, Chapter 7, relative to higher education.

TN HB1227

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN SB1368

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN HB0738

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN SB0803

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN SB2141

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 43, Chapter 6, Part 5 and Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN HB2095

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 43, Chapter 6, Part 5 and Title 49, relative to higher education.

TN SB0719

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 4, relative to financial aid.

TN HB0704

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 4, relative to financial aid.

Similar Bills

TN HB2560

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 9; Title 13; Title 16; Title 39; Title 55; Title 58; Title 62; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to emergency management.

TN SB2248

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 9; Title 13; Title 16; Title 39; Title 55; Title 58; Title 62; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to emergency management.

TN SB0329

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1; Title 2; Title 3; Title 4; Title 5; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 10; Title 11; Title 12; Title 13; Title 16; Title 20; Title 22; Title 24; Title 31; Title 33; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 43; Title 44; Title 45; Title 47; Title 48; Title 49; Title 50; Title 53; Title 54; Title 55; Title 56; Title 61; Title 62; Title 63; Title 64; Title 65; Title 66; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69 and Title 71, relative to electronic transmissions.

TN HB0321

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1; Title 2; Title 3; Title 4; Title 5; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 10; Title 11; Title 12; Title 13; Title 16; Title 20; Title 22; Title 24; Title 31; Title 33; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 43; Title 44; Title 45; Title 47; Title 48; Title 49; Title 50; Title 53; Title 54; Title 55; Title 56; Title 61; Title 62; Title 63; Title 64; Title 65; Title 66; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69 and Title 71, relative to electronic transmissions.

TN HB1189

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB1227

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN HB0806

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 7; Title 8; Title 10; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 49; Title 50; Title 57; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 70, relative to firearms.

TN SB1235

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 21; Title 9; Title 62; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to state entities.