Tuition Assistance Grant Program; eligible institutions, proprietary private institutions.
Impact
By implementing per-student enrollment-based funding, HB1926 seeks to incentivize growth in undergraduate student enrollments within public institutions. This measure is anticipated to generate greater degree conferrals within the Commonwealth. Additionally, the bill underscores the importance of addressing the financial needs of low and middle-income families, thereby providing broader access to higher education opportunities.
Summary
House Bill 1926 establishes the Tuition Assistance Grant Program aimed at providing financial grants to Virginia students who attend eligible institutions of higher education. The aim of this program is to enhance the accessibility of higher education by offering financial incentives to students. The bill defines eligible institutions and outlines the parameters for the distribution of tuition assistance to ensure that students receive support for their educational endeavors.
Contention
The legislative discussions surrounding HB1926 have highlighted concerns regarding the balance between public and private educational institutions. Some lawmakers argue that the bill may favor nonprofit private institutions at the expense of public institutions, potentially skewing the competitive landscape. Critics may also raise issues regarding the allocation of funds and the criteria for determining student eligibility, expressing concern over how effectively the bill addresses the needs of all students.
Phases out State tuition aid grants for students enrolled in proprietary institutions of higher education; redirects State tuition aid grant funding for students enrolled in proprietary institutions to summer tuition aid grant program.
Provides that former law enforcement officers who retired due to disability are eligible to receive tuition assistance to attend public institution of higher education or proprietary institution licensed to confer academic degrees.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.