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Committee advances narrow tuition-equalization change to expand aid for one institution’s students
Summary
A substitute to House Bill 541 was approved to make a specified institution eligible for Tuition Equalization Grants for certain students; the change was described as tightly drawn and not to expand other aid programs.
A House committee approved a narrowly written change to House Bill 541 that would permit a specified institution and its qualifying students to receive the state Tuition Equalization Grant (TAG), with sponsors emphasizing the change is limited and does not alter eligibility for HOPE scholarships, Zell Miller or dual-enrollment programs.
Chair Lee Dempsey said the measure has been pursued for several years and that the current substitute reflects work with the governor’s office and institution leadership. She described the change as “belt-and-suspenders” language that clarifies the intent: it would allow only the tuition equalization grant for a particular group of students (often second- and third-career students training for nursing), not other state aid categories. Dempsey told the committee the current TAG award amount is small — she cited roughly $367 per quarter or about $550 per semester — and called the grant “just a little bit of help” for students who may be working and supporting families.
Representative Gleis asked for clarification about the grant amount and purpose; the sponsor reiterated the limited scope and the workforce rationale (helping students become nurses). The committee gave the substitute a due-pass recommendation to rules on a voice vote.
What the substitute provides
- Clarifies that a single named institution’s qualifying students may receive the Tuition Equalization Grant only. - Does not extend HOPE, Zell Miller, or dual-enrollment benefits to that institution’s students. - TAG award described in committee as roughly $367 per quarter (approx. $550 per semester).
Next steps
- HB 541 (LC610211S) moves to the rules committee with a due-pass recommendation. Sponsor said the language responds to concerns raised in prior sessions and to a veto last year.
