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S 935

Relates to authorizing and directing the metropolitan transportation authority to implement a free fare program for NYC firefighters on the LIRR

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 3 co-sponsors

Bill S 935 ties state financial aid to colleges' graduation rates (30%) and loan default rates (20%), ensuring funds support accountable institutions in Massachusetts.

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Bill Summary · S 935

Summary of Bill S 935: An Act Protecting Students and Increasing Accountability at Massachusetts Colleges and Universities

Bill Number: S 935
Introduced On: February 27, 2025
Current Status: Accompanied by a new draft (S2702)
Presented By: Edward J. Kennedy, First Middlesex District

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 935 aims to enhance accountability among postsecondary educational institutions in Massachusetts by reforming eligibility requirements for state-based financial aid. The primary goal is to ensure that state scholarship funds are allocated only to institutions that demonstrate satisfactory graduation rates and manageable default rates on student loans.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes amendments to Section 16 of Chapter 15A of the General Laws, which governs state student financial aid. The key provisions include:

  • Eligibility Criteria for Institutions:

    • Institutions must demonstrate:
    • A graduation rate of at least 30% for undergraduate students completing their degrees within 150% of the expected time, including transfer students.
    • An average 3-year cohort default rate of no more than 20% on federal student loans.

  • Oversight by the Board of Higher Education:

    • The Board of Higher Education is tasked with:
    • Establishing rules and regulations to implement these eligibility requirements.
    • Annually determining which institutions meet the criteria.
    • Providing a process for institutions to appeal if they are deemed ineligible.
    • Posting a list of eligible institutions on the Department of Higher Education’s website.

Impact

This legislation is expected to affect:
- Students: Only those attending institutions that meet the specified criteria will be eligible for state scholarship funds, potentially influencing their choice of college or university.
- Colleges and Universities: Institutions will need to improve their graduation and default rates to maintain eligibility for state financial aid, which may prompt changes in academic support services and financial management practices.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 27, 2025: Bill referred to the Committee on Higher Education.
  • October 3, 2025: A hearing is scheduled for October 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-2.
  • November 12, 2025: The bill was accompanied by a new draft (S2702).

Related Legislation

  • SD 486: This bill replaces the previous similar matter filed in the 2023-2024 session (Senate No. 830).

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 935, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the potential impact on students and educational institutions in Massachusetts.

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

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