Supporters tell committee SB 406 prepares Kansas to implement federal workforce Pell grants
Get AI-powered insights, summaries, and transcripts
Subscribe
Summary
Proponents said SB 406 creates a state process to approve programs for newly expanded federal workforce Pell grants, align state and federal funding, and avoid duplicative funding; supporters urged a quick rollout so eligible programs can access funds beginning in July.
Lawmakers in the Senate Education Committee on Friday heard testimony supporting Senate Bill 406, which would require the governor, in consultation with the State Workforce Development Board, to approve eligible short‑term workforce training programs for the federal expansion of Pell grants.
Tamara Lawrence, the committee reviser, said the bill would create an internal approval process at the State Workforce Development Board, coordinate approvals with other state and federal workforce programs to prevent duplicative funding, and align state resources with federal requirements. The bill would take effect July 1 upon publication in the statute book.
Christian Bernard, visiting fellow with FGA Action, testified remotely and urged prompt implementation so Kansas can access the new federal funding stream when it becomes available. "This federal reform will only benefit Kansas students if the state implements it quickly and effectively," Bernard said, noting the federal expansion will allow short‑term programs that lead to industry‑recognized credentials to qualify for Pell grants.
Heather Morgan of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges told senators SB 406 largely echoes federal requirements and that the Kansas Board of Regents has formed a committee to coordinate with the State Workforce Development Board. Morgan said relatively few programs statewide are likely to qualify under the federal rules and noted CDL and other short‑term technical programs are among those often discussed for eligibility.
Senators asked about the interaction with existing state funding streams and whether eligible programs would be offered by community and technical colleges; witnesses said eligible programs must be offered by Title IV‑eligible (accredited) institutions and that some states supplement federal workforce Pell grants with state streams but that workforce Pell creates a stable federal revenue source for short‑term training.
The committee closed the hearing on SB 406 after proponent testimony and no neutral or opponent testimony.