Panel approves referral to appropriations for bill expanding debt-free community college eligibility and naming awards for Mary Ann Hanley

The committee moved SB 204 to the Appropriations Committee. The substitute bill would expand eligibility for the debt-free community college program so recipients would not have to have graduated from a Connecticut high school, rename awards in honor of former state senator Mary Ann Hanley, and change some program language from "grant" to "award." The substitute also adjusts a reporting deadline for the Board of Regents.

Senator Kelly expressed concern that expanding program eligibility to people who did not graduate from Connecticut high schools could provide benefits to nonresidents at a time when in-state students face rising tuition and when the state college system is seeking additional revenue. Senator Kelly said she understands the policy goal but would prefer a focus on Connecticut residents and indicated she planned to "mark this bill no" for now while working on modifications.

Chair Senator Slapp and other members noted that prior testimony and experience suggested most benefits would flow to Connecticut residents, and that the bill could help long-term residents who lack a Connecticut high-school credential, military spouses stationed in state, and adult learners returning to the workforce. Representative Dadd and Representative Kulin urged additional study and attention to categories of long-term residents and adult learners who would be newly eligible.

The clerk called the roll; multiple 'yes' votes were recorded in the transcript and the chair kept the roll open until 2:00 p.m. for members to cast remote votes. The committee referred SB 204 to Appropriations for fiscal review and continued consideration.