Nevada lawmakers propose tuition waivers for homeless youth with Assembly Bill 397

The Assembly Committee on Education convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 397, aimed at establishing a tuition waiver program for homeless youth in Nevada. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for educational support for this vulnerable population, which has faced significant challenges in accessing higher education.

Assemblymember Howard Watts opened the discussion by referencing a previous bill that had passed unanimously, which created a tuition waiver for homeless youth but had not been enacted due to budgetary constraints. He emphasized the importance of rectifying this issue, noting that many homeless youth share similar challenges with those in the foster care system. Watts expressed his commitment to ensuring that all young people in Nevada can access higher education despite their difficult circumstances.

Arash Ghafuri, CEO of Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth, presented alarming statistics about youth homelessness in Nevada. He reported that in February 2024, nearly 550 unaccompanied youth experienced literal homelessness on any given night, marking a 27% increase from the previous year. Ghafuri stressed that youth experiencing homelessness face significant barriers to education, including chronic absenteeism and a higher likelihood of dropping out of high school. He argued that post-secondary education is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness.

The proposed Assembly Bill 397 aims to extend the existing tuition waiver to homeless youth, providing them with the financial support necessary to pursue higher education. The bill outlines specific eligibility criteria, including age limits, enrollment status, and verification of homelessness through community organizations. It is designed as a "last dollar" program, meaning it would cover any remaining tuition costs after federal financial aid has been applied.

Teresa Butler, a former unaccompanied homeless youth and advocate, shared her personal story, highlighting the transformative power of education. She emphasized that the bill is not just about financial assistance but about providing hope and opportunities for young people to rewrite their futures.

The committee members engaged in discussions regarding the bill's provisions, including the verification process for eligibility and the potential fiscal impact on the state. Questions were raised about the number of students who might benefit from the program, with estimates suggesting around 13 to 18 eligible seniors statewide.

Support for the bill was voiced by various stakeholders, including educators and youth advocates, who underscored the importance of addressing the barriers faced by homeless youth in accessing education. They argued that investing in these young people's education is an investment in the future of Nevada.

The meeting concluded with a call for further support and collaboration among community organizations and educational institutions to ensure the success of homeless youth in higher education. The committee plans to continue discussions on the bill and its implications for Nevada's educational landscape.