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Committee approves expansion of National Guard tuition waiver to nonpublic colleges
Summary
The committee passed HB 17‑86 to allow Army and Air National Guard members to use the state's tuition waiver program at eligible private institutions that accept Title IV federal aid; testimony said there is no fiscal impact to the state.
The House Education Committee voted to pass House Bill 17‑86, which would allow Arkansas National Guard members to use the state's tuition waiver program at eligible private, nonpublic institutions that accept Title IV federal student aid.
Witnesses described the program’s eligibility rules: enlisted and officer personnel who are Arkansas residents, in good standing, who have completed initial training and who have not already been awarded a bachelor’s degree are eligible. Under current law, the waiver applies to state‑supported public institutions; the bill would extend eligibility to qualified nonpublic colleges that accept federal student aid. Testimony named private colleges that could participate if they meet federal Title IV requirements.
Witnesses and the sponsor told the committee the change would have no fiscal impact on the state’s general fund or on the tuition waiver program as currently administered. A committee amendment adding a senate sponsor was adopted and the bill was passed by the committee on a voice vote.
