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HB 473

Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship Program - Revisions

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Harris

Maryland's Community College Promise Scholarship Program revisions adjust student aid eligibility and funding to improve community college affordability and workforce preparation.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 377
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Bill Summary · HB 473

Legislative bill overview

HB 473 revises Maryland's Community College Promise Scholarship Program, which provides financial aid to eligible students attending community colleges in the state. The bill modifies program requirements, eligibility criteria, or funding mechanisms for this existing scholarship initiative. The specific revisions became law in May 2025 after passing both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval.

Why is this important

Community college affordability directly affects workforce development and economic mobility for lower- and middle-income Marylanders. Changes to scholarship programs impact which students can access tuition assistance and how state education funding is allocated. This affects both individual student outcomes and Maryland's ability to build a skilled workforce in high-demand fields.

Potential points of contention

  • Eligibility changes: Revisions may have narrowed or expanded who qualifies for aid, potentially affecting rural students, part-time learners, or those with specific income thresholds
  • Funding implications: Modified program requirements could increase state budget obligations or reallocate resources between community colleges
  • Program scope: Changes may have altered which fields of study, credential types, or institutions are covered under the promise scholarship framework

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

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