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Measure to let Western Governors University students access Ben Ashley grant fails after tie vote
Summary
A bill to make Western Governors University‑Tennessee eligible for the Ben Ashley Opportunity Grant passed out of subcommittee but failed in full committee on an 8–8 tie; proponents argued it would expand access for nontraditional working adults, critics warned of diluting limited scholarship dollars.
A proposal to expand eligibility for the Ben Ashley Opportunity Grant to students at Western Governors University‑Tennessee failed in the full House Education committee after an 8–8 tie and one present not voting.
Leader Garrett carried the bill, which had been amended in subcommittee to make funding contingent on appropriation. He and witnesses from WGU argued the school serves nontraditional, working adults who would benefit from the state scholarship; Chancellor Kim Estep said WGU has awarded more than 13,000 degrees to Tennessee working adults since its 2013 authorization and emphasized programs in nursing, education and IT.
Supporters noted WGU’s flexible, competency-based model and said the Ben Ashley grant currently benefits low-income students at independent colleges; extending eligibility would help rural and working students finish credentials.
Opponents, including Chairman Supicki, cautioned that the Ben Ashley fund routinely exhausts annually and that adding additional eligible institutions could reduce access for students currently served by brick‑and‑mortar independent colleges. Chairman Supicki also warned that several out-of-state online providers could seek the same access if the committee expanded eligibility, potentially diluting state scholarship resources.
After a motion to call the question, the clerk recorded 8 ayes, 8 nays and 1 present not voting; the bill failed for lack of majority.
