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HD 2324

An Act relative to tuition waivers for children raised by a grandparent or other relative

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Donato and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill establishes tuition waivers at public colleges for students raised by grandparents or relatives, addressing educational access for kinship-care youth.

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Bill Summary · HD 2324

Legislative bill overview

HD 2324 would establish tuition waivers for children who were raised primarily by grandparents or other relatives rather than their biological parents. The bill aims to provide educational access and cost relief for students in non-traditional family arrangements by removing tuition barriers at Massachusetts public higher education institutions.

Why is this important

Children raised by grandparents or relatives often face economic hardship and educational barriers, as caregiving relatives may have limited financial resources. This bill directly addresses equity by reducing financial obstacles to college education for a vulnerable student population, potentially increasing degree attainment rates among kinship-care youth.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and state funding: Critics may question whether the state budget can absorb tuition waivers without reducing funding for other student aid programs or institutional operations
  • Eligibility verification complexity: Determining what constitutes "raised primarily by" a relative creates administrative challenges—how much time/guardianship documentation is required to qualify
  • Scope and fairness questions: Some may argue similar waivers should apply to other economically disadvantaged students regardless of family structure, or question why this demographic receives preference over other populations facing educational barriers
  • Potential loopholes: The bill could face scrutiny regarding whether wealthy families might exploit kinship arrangements to access need-blind tuition benefits

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

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