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A 5320

Provides for tuition assistance program awards for students experiencing homelessness

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sarah Clark and 14 co-sponsors

Bill A 5320 establishes a tuition assistance program for students experiencing homelessness, helping them overcome financial barriers to access higher education.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · A 5320

Summary of Bill A 5320

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5320
  • Title: Provides for tuition assistance program awards for students experiencing homelessness
  • Status: Referred to Higher Education
  • Introduced: February 13, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5320 aims to establish a tuition assistance program specifically designed to support students who are experiencing homelessness. The intent of the bill is to alleviate financial barriers to higher education for this vulnerable population, ensuring that they have access to the resources necessary to pursue their academic goals.

Key Provisions

  • Tuition Assistance Awards: The bill proposes the creation of a dedicated fund to provide tuition assistance awards to eligible students who are experiencing homelessness.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Specific criteria will be established to determine eligibility, focusing on students who can demonstrate their status as homeless.
  • Funding Mechanism: The bill outlines a funding mechanism to support the tuition assistance program, although specific dollar amounts and funding sources are not detailed in the current version.
  • Administrative Oversight: The bill may designate a state agency or educational institution to oversee the implementation and administration of the program, ensuring that funds are distributed appropriately and that students receive the necessary support.

Impact

  • Target Population: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be students experiencing homelessness, who often face significant challenges in accessing higher education due to financial instability.
  • Educational Institutions: Colleges and universities will be impacted as they may need to adapt their financial aid processes to accommodate the new tuition assistance program.
  • Community Support Services: Organizations that provide support to homeless individuals may also play a role in helping students navigate the application process for assistance.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action: As of February 13, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Higher Education committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session bills A 8520 and A 4465, as well as companion bill S 27, indicating ongoing legislative interest in addressing the needs of homeless students.

Conclusion

Bill A 5320 represents a significant step towards increasing access to higher education for students experiencing homelessness. By providing targeted financial assistance, the bill seeks to empower these individuals to pursue their educational aspirations and improve their long-term prospects. Further discussions and developments in the Higher Education committee will determine the bill's future and potential implementation.

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

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