Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes a higher education scholarship for college students.

Highlights:

• Requires that each postsecondary educational institution that receives state funds for state financial aid and tuition assistance programs such as the Bright Futures Scholarship Program to do the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 4):

• Maintain complete and accurate student records documenting the institution’s administration of state financial aid and tuition assistance funds;

• Verify eligibility of enrolled students;

• Report each student’s program of study to the department of education;

• Disburse state financial aid and tuition assistance to eligible students; and

• Notify students annually regarding the renewal requirements for each state funded award for which they are eligible.

• Specifies that an institution that fails to perform its aforementioned duties shall be placed on probation by the department and authorizes the department to permanently revoke or suspend an institution's eligibility if they repeatedly fail to perform their duties (Sec. 4).

• Requires that funding for programs like the Bright Futures Scholarship Program be allocated from the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund and calculated for appropriations in each fiscal year state budget proposal (Sec. 8).

Full Bill Text