To direct the Secretary of Education to establish a program to facilitate the transition to tuition-free community college in certain States, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 5532, the Tuition-Free Community College Grant and Support Program, aims to establish a federal program facilitating the transition to tuition-free community college in participating states. The bill directs the Secretary of Education to provide grants to states that develop and implement plans to make community college tuition-free for eligible students. It also supports institutional capacity building and provides direct aid to students for non-tuition costs.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would increase access to community college education for eligible students by eliminating tuition costs. States would be required to create interagency committees and develop plans to align education, improve career pathways, and maximize public resources. The program also aims to increase credential attainment and support students with barriers to employment.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to higher education for eligible students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
- Improved workforce development through alignment of education with in-demand industries.
- Enhanced economic mobility for state residents through affordable postsecondary education.
- Support for institutional capacity to provide wraparound services, addressing students' basic needs.
- Reduction of barriers to postsecondary credential attainment by integrating education and training models.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on federal and state budgets due to the cost of grants and subgrants.
- Risk of administrative challenges in establishing and managing the program at both federal and state levels.
- Possible unintended consequences, such as overcrowding at community colleges or a decrease in the perceived value of a community college education.
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and data collection requirements for states and institutions.
- Dependence on continued federal funding, which could be subject to future political changes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is primarily based on the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8), which allows Congress to collect taxes to provide for the general welfare of the United States. The program aims to improve education and workforce development, potentially contributing to the nation's overall well-being. However, some may argue that education is primarily a state responsibility, raising questions about the extent of federal intervention.
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).