Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2654

Caption

A bill for an act providing for a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for dependents of first responders.(Formerly HSB 716.)

Impact

The bill mandates that a community college must grant a waiver for resident tuition to a qualifying dependent who meets specific admission requirements, pursues appropriate educational paths, and can prove their parent or guardian's history as a first responder in Iowa. Importantly, the waiver is applicable for degrees related to careers in public safety or recognized high-demand jobs. This legislation aims to expand educational opportunities for these dependents, potentially leading to greater workforce participation in fields crucial to public safety and community service.

Summary

House File 2654, known as the First Responder Dependent Education Act, proposes a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for the dependents of first responders such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical care providers. The intention of the bill is to provide educational support to the families of those who serve in essential roles within the community and to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by first responders. The bill outlines eligibility criteria and the conditions under which dependents can receive these tuition waivers as a way to aid their pursuit of higher education.

Contention

While the bill seems largely beneficial, some contention may arise regarding its long-term financial implications and whether the state will be able to sustain the funding for these waivers. Another point of potential conflict revolves around the five-year residency requirement for recipients after completing their education. This could raise concerns over how it impacts mobility for these individuals and families, particularly those who may have to relocate due to job opportunities or personal circumstances. Additionally, the need for verification of the parent's employment status as a first responder, including the need for continuous oversight, may lead to administrative challenges.

Companion Bills

IA HSB716

Related A bill for an act providing for a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for dependents of first responders.(See HF 2654.)

Previously Filed As

IA HSB716

A bill for an act providing for a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for dependents of first responders.(See HF 2654.)

IA HSB329

A bill for an act providing for a waiver of tuition and mandatory fees at regents institutions and community colleges for peace officers and their legal dependents and making appropriations.

IA HB07006

An Act Concerning Tuition Waivers For Nursing Home Residents Who Take Online Courses At Regional Community-technical Colleges.

IA HB2616

tuition waivers; ABOR; community colleges

IA HB2913

Tuition waivers; ABOR; community colleges

IA SB477

Establishing the Kansas first responder scholarship program to provide postsecondary tuition assistance to certain first responders and dependents of such first responders.

IA HF175

A bill for an act relating to in-state residency for purposes of undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees at regents institutions and community colleges for certain military personnel and family members. (Formerly HSB 6.)

IA SB716

Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans

IA SB1048

Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans

IA HB2074

Creates the "Missouri Disabled Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver" to provide college tuition waivers for the children, stepchildren, and spouses of certain veterans

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.