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S 945

An Act assisting low-income students success through work-study

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jamie Eldridge and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill to expand work-study programs for low-income students, improving job access and wages to reduce financial barriers to higher education enrollment and completion.

Accompanied a new draft, see S2704
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Bill Summary · S 945

Legislative bill overview

S 945 proposes to expand and improve work-study programs specifically designed to support low-income students in Massachusetts. The bill aims to enhance job opportunities, wages, or other support mechanisms within existing work-study frameworks to increase economic accessibility for disadvantaged students pursuing higher education.

Why is this important

Work-study programs allow students to earn income while attending school, reducing reliance on loans and family financial support. For low-income students particularly, improved work-study access can be the difference between staying enrolled or dropping out due to financial hardship, while also providing valuable work experience.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source: Unclear whether the bill would require new state appropriations, institutional funding reallocations, or federal matching funds, which affects fiscal impact and legislative feasibility
  • Wage requirements: Proposed wage levels or increases may face resistance from colleges concerned about budget constraints or from employers regarding competitiveness
  • Program scope: Questions about which institutions qualify, which students are eligible, and whether funding prioritizes on-campus versus off-campus employment could create fairness or implementation disputes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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