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Bill

H 799

An act relating to the Free Degree Promise Program

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Bosch and 8 co-sponsors

Creates a state-funded program to cover or reduce tuition for eligible Vermont students pursuing approved degree programs.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Education
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 799

Overview

House Bill 799 (H.799) from the 2025-2026 Vermont legislative session proposes a program titled the Free Degree Promise Program. The bill aims to expand access to higher education by removing or reducing the financial barriers for students pursuing a college degree. It has multiple sponsors and was read for the first time and referred to the Senate Committee on Education on January 28, 2026 (House action history).

Purpose and intent

  • To increase postsecondary degree attainment among Vermont residents by providing tuition support or full tuition coverage under a state-level Free Degree Promise.
  • To reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs for eligible students, enabling them to enroll in and complete an eligible degree program without traditional tuition burdens.
  • To promote workforce development and address skills gaps by encouraging enrollment in higher education aligned with the state’s labor market needs.

Key provisions and changes (as described or implied)

  • Establishment of a state-administered Free Degree Promise Program designed to fund or subsidize college tuition for qualifying students.
  • Eligibility criteria (to be determined in the bill and related administrative rules) likely include:
    • Residency requirements for Vermont students.
    • Academic eligibility standards (e.g., high school graduation or GED, college eligibility).
    • Maintenance of satisfactory academic progress or degree pursuit in eligible programs.
    • Limitations on program duration (e.g., coverage for a standard 2-year or 4-year degree, potentially limited to in-state institutions or eligible programs).
  • Funding mechanism:
    • The bill would specify the source of funds (e.g., state general funds, education funds, or dedicated revenue streams) and any annual appropriation requirements.
    • Potential for tie-ins to state budget cycles and appropriations.
  • Program administration:
    • Assignment of responsibility to a Vermont education agency or department (likely the Agency of Education or a higher education body) to implement, monitor, and report on the program.
    • Development of enrollment processes, application timelines, and required documentation.
    • Provisions for audits, compliance, and accountability.
  • Postsecondary scope:
    • Eligibility could apply to approved degree-granting programs at eligible Vermont institutions or potentially across accredited institutions meeting state criteria.
    • Possible prioritization or preference for programs aligned with in-demand occupations or sectors critical to Vermont’s economy.
  • Student commitments and responsibilities:
    • Requirements such as maintaining minimum academic standards, fulfilling service obligations, or remaining in-state after graduation (if applicable) as part of repayment or continued eligibility (depending on program design).

Who would be affected

  • Vermont residents seeking access to higher education who meet eligibility thresholds.
  • Eligible degree-seeking students at participating colleges or universities in Vermont.
  • Families and households of participating students, given potential effects on financial planning and reliance on state funding.
  • Postsecondary institutions in Vermont, which may experience changes in enrollment patterns and potential administrative processes to coordinate with the program.
  • State agencies responsible for higher education funding and program oversight.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Current action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Education (as of 2026-01-28).
  • Next steps typically include committee hearings, potential amendments, and a committee vote.
  • If advanced, the bill would progress through additional chambers (Senate) and later undergo any conference or reconciliation steps if there are differences between versions.
  • Administrative rulemaking and implementation timelines would be established once program parameters are enacted, including application windows, annual funding cycles, and reporting deadlines.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Access and Equity: Aimed at reducing barriers for low- and middle-income students, potentially expanding college enrollment and completion rates.
  • Fiscal Impact: Requires ongoing state funding; effectiveness depends on appropriation levels and program design.
  • Economic Alignment: May be designed to support Vermont’s workforce needs by prioritizing programs with strong job prospects in-state.
  • Implementation Risk: Success depends on clear eligibility rules, reliable funding, and effective administration to prevent gaps in coverage or administrative hurdles.

Note: The summary is based on the bill’s title, action history, and typical structures of “Free Degree Promise” initiatives. For precise eligibility criteria, funding amounts, participating institutions, and operational details, the bill’s text and any enacted amendments should be consulted.

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

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