Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB1031

Introduced
2/17/26  
Refer
2/17/26  

Caption

An Act to create 20.235 (1) (dm) and 39.55 of the statutes; Relating to: creating an undergraduate assistance grant program for students enrolled in private nonprofit postsecondary institutions and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of SB1031 would have significant implications for state education funding and student financial aid programs. By appropriating funds to support these grants, the bill underscores a commitment to enhancing educational equity among different types of postsecondary institutions. It aligns with broader efforts to ensure that students attending private institutions have access to similar financial assistance as their peers in public colleges and universities. This move could potentially shift the dynamics of funding in higher education, encouraging more students to consider private nonprofit institutions due to the added financial support.

Summary

SB1031 aims to establish an undergraduate assistance grant program specifically designed for students enrolled in private nonprofit postsecondary institutions. The bill recognizes the financial challenges that many students face when pursuing higher education and seeks to provide targeted support that can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with tuition and related expenses. By creating this grant program, the legislation intends to bolster access to postsecondary education for a broader range of students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational opportunities.

Contention

While the bill has garnered attention for its promise to support students, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of state funds. Critics might argue that public institutions should be prioritized for funding initiatives, particularly in light of budget constraints. The discussion around SB1031 could involve debates on the effectiveness of funding private institutions versus enhancing resources for public colleges, which serve a larger portion of the student population. Additionally, concerns about oversight and the equitable distribution of funds may arise, prompting further discussions about how best to structure the grant program.

Companion Bills

WI AB1079

Crossfiled An Act to create 20.235 (1) (dm) and 39.55 of the statutes; Relating to: creating an undergraduate assistance grant program for students enrolled in private nonprofit postsecondary institutions and making an appropriation. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI AB1079

Creating an undergraduate assistance grant program for students enrolled in private nonprofit postsecondary institutions and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1074

Student loans for postsecondary education, requirements related to student loan servicers, creating an office of the student loan ombudsman in the Department of Financial Institutions, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1041

Student loans for postsecondary education, requirements related to student loan servicers, creating an office of the student loan ombudsman in the Department of Financial Institutions, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB5909

Reviewing and discontinuing low-enrollment undergraduate programs at public baccalaureate institutions.

WI SB591

Dual enrollment programs, creating the Council on Dual Enrollment, and transfer of postsecondary course credits. (FE)

WI AB582

Dual enrollment programs, creating the Council on Dual Enrollment, and transfer of postsecondary course credits. (FE)

WI AB1078

Creating an innovation grant program for institutions of higher education and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1069

Creating an innovation grant program for institutions of higher education and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI AB1022

Creating a baby bond program and baby bond fund, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1008

Creating a baby bond program and baby bond fund, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

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NJ A1677

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CA AB681

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