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HB 704

Lottery, Scholarships and Programs - As introduced, adds William R. Moore College of Technology as an eligible institution for receipt of the Wilder-Naifeh reconnect grant and Wilder-Naifeh technical skills grant; specifies that the amount of the scholarship for such students enrolled is the average cost of tuition and mandatory fees at TCATs less all other gift aid. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Expands Tennessee's Wilder-Naifeh workforce grants to William R. Moore College of Technology, setting scholarship amounts at average TCAT tuition costs minus other aid received.

Placed on s/c cal Higher Education Subcommittee for 3/18/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 704

Legislative bill overview

HB 704 adds William R. Moore College of Technology to the list of institutions eligible for Tennessee's Wilder-Naifeh reconnect and technical skills grants. The bill specifies that scholarship amounts equal the average cost of tuition and mandatory fees at TCATs, reduced by any other gift aid the student receives.

Why is this important

This change expands access to state-funded workforce development grants to students at an additional technical college, potentially increasing educational opportunity in a specific region. The scholarship amount methodology affects both program costs and student financial aid packages, making it relevant to state budget planning and student affordability.

Potential points of contention

  • Geographic equity: Whether adding one specific institution represents fair distribution of grant eligibility across the state's technical college network, or creates disparities in access between regions
  • Cost calculations: The "average cost of tuition and mandatory fees at TCATs" baseline could create administrative complexity and questions about whether this reflects actual costs at William R. Moore specifically
  • Gift aid interaction: The provision subtracting other gift aid may reduce effective scholarship value for students receiving federal or private aid, potentially limiting the program's benefit

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

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