Bill > HR468

This bill amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require colleges and universities participating in federal financial aid programs to establish a policy for awarding posthumous degrees to students who have died before completing their degree. Specifically, the bill mandates that institutions can award a posthumous degree to a deceased student who was enrolled in a degree program, died before completing it, and was in good academic standing at the time of death, as determined by the institution. Additionally, the bill prevents accreditation agencies from considering the number of posthumous degrees awarded by an institution when evaluating its accreditation status. The provisions of this bill, named "Mel's Law", will take effect one year after its enactment. The purpose of the bill appears to be to provide a compassionate way for institutions to recognize the academic progress of students who tragically pass away before completing their educational goals, ensuring their academic achievements are acknowledged and their potential is honored.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/468/all-info