Committee approves lump‑sum Hathaway option to give students more flexibility

The Senate Education Committee voted unanimously Feb. 13 to advance Senate File 36, which would convert Hathaway awards from a semester‑by‑semester allocation into a single lump‑sum amount that students could apply toward tuition and fees over a multi‑semester window.

Senator Rothfuss, the bill’s sponsor in committee, described the policy as creating a "debit card" of the student’s full Hathaway award that could be used across semesters, for part‑time enrollment, internships, study abroad or other approved costs at Wyoming colleges and the University of Wyoming. He said the change does not alter the total award amounts but changes how the funds are delivered to students.

As an example, the committee was shown an honors‑level lump sum equivalent of $13,440 to be applied across a student’s eligible enrollment period. Supporters said the lump sum increases flexibility for non‑traditional students, students who enroll part time, or those who pause coursework for internships or other educational opportunities.

Committee members discussed the need to harmonize SF36 with Senate File 47 if both bills advance, to avoid conflicting statutory language. Several senators said coordination and possible second‑house amendments could resolve overlaps.

The committee moved the bill for "due pass" and recorded a roll‑call vote: five ayes, zero nays. The bill will next go to the full Senate; committee members asked staff to consider conforming language if both Hathaway bills progress.