A bill for an act establishing the comprehensive transition and postsecondary program scholarship program and making appropriations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Taylor

SF 14 establishes a scholarship program for individuals with disabilities, providing up to $5,000 to enhance access to postsecondary education and vocational training.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 283.

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Summary of SF 14 - Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Program Scholarship Program

Bill Number: SF 14
Title: A bill for an act establishing the comprehensive transition and postsecondary program scholarship program and making appropriations.
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 283.
Introduced: January 13, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Appropriations, College Student Aid Commission, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities, Scholarships, Tuition, Vocational Rehabilitation, Workforce Development Department

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 14 is to establish a scholarship program aimed at supporting individuals with intellectual, developmental, or learning disabilities. This initiative seeks to enhance access to comprehensive transition and postsecondary programs approved by the U.S. Department of Education, thereby promoting educational and vocational opportunities for eligible individuals.

Key Provisions

Scholarship Program Creation:

The bill mandates the College Student Aid Commission, in collaboration with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, to develop and administer a scholarship program.
Scholarships will be available for individuals aged 18 and older who are enrolled in approved comprehensive transition and postsecondary programs.

Funding and Amount:

Each scholarship awarded will not exceed $5,000.
The program will be funded through appropriations made by the General Assembly and any additional funds received by the College Student Aid Commission.

Evaluation Criteria:

The College Student Aid Commission will establish criteria for evaluating scholarship applications, prioritizing Iowa residents.

Administration:

The program will be governed by rules adopted under Chapter 17A, ensuring proper administration and oversight.

Establishment of a Fund:

A dedicated fund for the scholarship program will be created within the state treasury, managed by the College Student Aid Commission in conjunction with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

Impact

Beneficiaries: The scholarship program will directly benefit individuals with intellectual, developmental, or learning disabilities, facilitating their participation in postsecondary education and vocational training.

Educational Institutions: Approved comprehensive transition and postsecondary programs in Iowa will see increased enrollment as financial barriers are reduced for eligible students.

State Budget: The bill will require appropriations from the General Assembly, impacting state budget allocations for educational support.

Legislative Timeline

January 13, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Education Committee.

January 28, 2025: Subcommittee formed, consisting of members Taylor, Gruenhagen, and Quirmbach.

February 4, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.

February 6, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.

February 12, 2025: Committee report approving the bill; it is renumbered as SF 283.

This summary provides an overview of SF 14, detailing its objectives, provisions, and potential impacts on individuals with disabilities and the educational landscape in Iowa.