Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act
Summary
The Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. It seeks to provide in-state tuition rates at public institutions for residents of Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the United States Virgin Islands who are also US nationals. This would apply to institutions receiving federal assistance under the Higher Education Act.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be to lower the cost of higher education for eligible students from US territories. This could increase access to education and potentially improve the economic prospects of these individuals and their communities. The bill also mandates that institutions comply with these tuition requirements as part of their program participation agreements.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to higher education for residents of US territories.
- Reduced financial burden on students and families from these territories.
- Potential for a more educated workforce in these territories.
- Could lead to greater economic development in these areas.
- Promotes equity in access to educational opportunities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on public institutions in states with large populations of students from these territories.
- Possible need for increased state funding to offset reduced tuition revenue.
- May create administrative complexities for institutions to verify residency and eligibility.
- Could be perceived as unfair by some state residents who do not receive similar tuition benefits.
- Limited impact if the number of eligible students is small.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to promote education and opportunity for residents of US territories. Congress has the power to legislate regarding territories under Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2, which grants Congress the power to "dispose of and make all needful Rules and Regulations respecting the Territory or other Property belonging to the United States."
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).