State legislators said they have introduced a higher‑education package that includes a tuition‑promise to cover the final costs after grants and aid, alongside student‑success grants aimed at retaining students who are struggling academically or financially.

Why it matters: Local colleges and employers depend on graduates and technicians; lawmakers said last‑mile affordability and retention supports can help students complete credentials and enter the local workforce.

Representative Vinny Moreci said the tuition‑promise would help "with that last dollar after your grants and student aid, to help low income kids afford to [go] to college." He also described a student‑success grant to provide supports that help students graduate when they face financial or mental‑health challenges.

Panelists urged stronger public–private partnerships between technical colleges, universities and local employers to increase internships, apprenticeships and job‑shadowing. Several speakers, including chamber and business leaders, said organized, well‑prepared visits to the Capitol or to business sites can make a strong case for legislative or employer support. "Come up with very strong argument, show up to the capital, and go to every one of the legislators that are gonna be part of that decision making process," one speaker said about advocacy strategies.

Attendees also pressed for more funding and programs that link students directly to local employers so graduates enter the workforce with relevant experience; speakers noted some students leave the region because of perceived limited opportunities.

What’s next: Legislators said the bills are being circulated and that local education and business leaders should provide input. Panelists asked chambers and employers to expand internship and apprenticeship opportunities and to invite legislators to visit local businesses to demonstrate regional workforce needs and opportunities.