Bill > H1436

This bill aims to establish a comprehensive grant program for debt-free public higher education in Massachusetts by first declaring free public higher education a right for all residents. The proposed legislation defines an "eligible student" as a person admitted to a Massachusetts public college, university, or educational program who has attended a Massachusetts high school for at least three years, graduated from a Massachusetts high school, or completed an adult basic education program in the state. The grant program would cover the full cost of tuition and mandatory fees for eligible students at public institutions, with additional financial aid for students who qualify for Federal Pell Grants to help cover additional expenses like room and board, books, transportation, and personal costs. Importantly, these grants are designed to supplement, not replace, existing state, institutional, and federal financial aid. The Board of Higher Education would be responsible for creating and managing the program, including maintaining a database of eligible students and providing annual notices about the program to potential recipients. The bill ensures that all public higher education and vocational training institutions are eligible, and students would have no restrictions on their choice of academic programs.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1436