Senate committee backs bill to preserve in‑state tuition residency for formerly incarcerated students

The Senate Committee on Education Postsecondary unanimously reported Senate Bill 720 favorably after sponsors and supporters argued the measure would help formerly incarcerated Floridians access in‑state tuition immediately upon release.

Senator Osgood, the bill sponsor, told the committee the proposal would allow students who were Florida residents before incarceration to retain residency for tuition purposes despite time spent in custody. "This bill allows students with prior incarceration to maintain their residency status within the state of Florida post incarceration," she said in explaining the bill's intent.

Why it matters: Supporters said education is a key tool for successful reentry and long‑term stability. Eddie Fordham, who testified in person, described being incarcerated for more than three decades and said documentary requirements under existing guidance — specifically the rule that requires evidence of residency for the 12 months before incarceration — create a barrier for long‑term inmates to reestablish eligibility. "SB 720 ensures that incarceration does not erase a person's residency or their future," Fordham said.

Debate and support: Senators on the committee spoke in favor. Senator Jones called the bill "a no‑brainer" and read the core statutory language into the record: "An individual may not lose his or her resident status for tuition purposes solely by reason of incarceration in a state or federal correctional facility in this state." Senators Berman and Rodriguez also voiced support, urging the committee to help people who have paid their debt to society.

Outcome and next steps: The committee called the roll and recorded unanimous yes votes; by the committee's vote SB 720 was reported favorably and will proceed to the next legislative stage.