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HR 5532

To direct the Secretary of Education to establish a program to facilitate the transition to tuition-free community college in certain States, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Adam Smith

HR 5532 aims to establish a federal program for tuition-free community college, enhancing access for low-income students and improving workforce development across states.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 5532

Summary of HR 5532: Tuition-Free Community College Program

Bill Number: HR 5532
Title: To direct the Secretary of Education to establish a program to facilitate the transition to tuition-free community college in certain States, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: September 19, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Adam Smith

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HR 5532 is to establish a federal program that supports states in transitioning to tuition-free community college for eligible students. This initiative seeks to enhance access to postsecondary education, improve workforce development, and address non-tuition costs that may hinder students from pursuing higher education.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines several provisions for states to receive grants from the Secretary of Education:

  1. Tuition-Free Community College: Grants will facilitate tuition-free community college for eligible students.

  2. Subgrants for Institutions: States can award subgrants to community colleges for:

    • Improving institutional capacity to provide supportive services.
    • Offering direct grants to students for non-tuition costs.

  3. State Application Requirements: States must submit a comprehensive plan that includes:

    • Formation of an interagency committee to evaluate workforce and education gaps.
    • Plans to assist individuals without a secondary school diploma in completing their education.
    • Strategies to improve career pathways and economic mobility.
    • Prioritization of support for low-income individuals and those facing employment barriers.
    • Data collection efforts to measure program outcomes and success.

  4. Supportive Services: Plans must address transportation, housing, childcare, and food assistance to support students.

  5. Enrollment and Retention: States are required to develop strategies to increase enrollment, retention, and completion rates among community college students.

  6. Sustainability: States must describe how they will sustain the tuition-free model and the federal assistance needed for its implementation.

Affected Parties

  • Eligible Students: Individuals seeking postsecondary education, particularly those from low-income backgrounds or facing barriers to employment.
  • Community Colleges: Institutions that will receive funding to enhance their capacity and services.
  • State Governments: States that apply for and receive grants will be responsible for implementing the program and meeting its requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Review: The bill has been referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration.
  • Timeline: The bill was introduced on September 19, 2025, and is currently under review.

Conclusion

HR 5532 represents a significant step towards making community college education more accessible and affordable for students across the United States. By providing federal support to states, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities, improve workforce readiness, and ultimately contribute to economic mobility for individuals in need.

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

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