Committee advances bill to increase minimum awards under debt-free community college program

The Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee voted to refer HB 5238 to the Appropriations Committee, a bill that would increase the minimum award amounts under the state's debt-free community college program.

Chair Senator Derek Slapp summarized the substitute language as aimed at increasing student retention and reflecting higher costs of attendance. He said the bill would "increase the minimum financial award as outlined from $250 full time to $750 and from $150 to $450 for part time students." Representative Cooling noted the bill goes to Appropriations and that a fiscal (physical) note will be provided there. Representative Cooley said she would "reserve [her] vote on the floor based on the fiscal note" but indicated willingness to support the committee referral.

The clerk called the roll; multiple committee members were recorded voting 'yes' and the chair kept the roll open to 2:00 p.m. for members to cast votes remotely. The substitute also carries an LCO number (2688) as recorded by the clerk.

The bill advances to appropriations for a fiscal review and further action.