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ME LD1118

ME LD1118
An Act to Establish a Permanent Free Community College Program for Maine


summary

Introduced
03/18/2025
In Committee
03/18/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/06/2025

Introduced Session

132nd Legislature

Bill Summary

This bill establishes the Maine Free Community College Program, which directs the Maine Community College System to issue a waiver for the payment of tuition and mandatory fees for students who are eligible for the program. The bill also establishes eligibility criteria and directs the Maine Community College System to submit an annual report to the Governor and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education matters and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs.

AI Summary

This bill establishes the Maine Free Community College Program, which will provide a tuition and mandatory fee waiver for eligible students attending community colleges in Maine. To qualify, students must: (1) enroll in an associate degree, diploma, or certificate program at a Maine community college, (2) be a resident of Maine throughout their enrollment, and (3) accept all available federal and state grants, scholarships, and other funding sources. The fee waiver will be valid for up to twice the standard completion time of the student's chosen program. Additionally, the Maine Community College System is required to submit an annual report starting January 1, 2027, to the Governor and two legislative committees (education and appropriations) detailing the program's status. The bill aims to increase access to higher education by reducing financial barriers for students pursuing community college education in Maine.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (10)

Last Action

Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD) (on 05/06/2025)

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