Bills Heard This Week
On Tuesday, April 7, House Higher Education and Workforce Development committee held a public hearing for two House bills:
- Filed by Rep. David Casteel (R-097), HB 3221 prohibits state funding for low-earning outcome degree programs. The bill aims to prohibit state funding for higher education programs identified by the federal government as low-earning, starting in the 2028-2029 academic year. Rep. Casteel highlighted the need for state funding to align with programs that provide a strong return on investment for students and taxpayers. Committee members raised concerns about the definition of low-earning degrees and the implications for essential professions, such as teaching, which may not be perceived as high-earning. There were worries that misclassification of degrees that could lead to successful careers and the risk of limiting access to education based on perceived earning potential. The sponsor indicated he is willing to work with committee members to improve the language. A representative from FGA Action testified in support of this bill, while representatives from the MCCA and Independent Colleges and Universities testified in opposition.
- Filed by Rep. LaKeySha Bosley (D-079), HB 3416 establishes the “Strengthening HBCUs Act”. The bill proposes allocating 1% of proceeds from excursion gambling to create a dedicated fund for HBCUs, potentially amounting to approximately $6.9 million. The discussion included the historical significance of HBCUs and the need for equitable funding to enhance their infrastructure and educational resources. Lincoln University President John Moseley spoke in support of the legislation. There was no testimony in opposition.
On Wednesday, April 8, the Senate perfected SB 1196. SB 1196, sponsored by Sen. Mike Henderson (R-03), modifies provisions relating to grants for certain workforce training programs. Originally filed as a bill relating to Workforce Pell Grants, a Senate substitute added language updating the income threshold for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant. The legislation also includes an emergency clause.
Also on Wednesday, the Senate 3rd read and passed HB 2061. Sponsored by Rep. George Hruza (R-089), HB 2061 provides protections against discrimination and antisemitism in public schools and public postsecondary educational institutions. A Senate substitute was offered and adopted by the Senate bill handler Sen. Curtis Trent (R-20), and two other amendments were also adopted. On Thursday, April 9 the House took up HB 2061 and it was truly agreed and finally passed (TAFP).
Upcoming Hearings
Below are the announced committee meetings that will hear bills from our MDHEWD Bill Tracking List.
Senate Fiscal Oversight
Monday, April 13
3:30 p.m.
Senate Committee Room 2
Senate Education
Tuesday, April 14
8:00 a.m.
Senate Lounge
Senate Appropriations
Tuesday, April 14
8:30 a.m.
Senate Committee Room 2
Senate Appropriations
Wednesday, April 15
8:30 a.m.
Senate Committee Room 2
House Elementary and Secondary Education
Wednesday, April 15
12:00 p.m. or upon morning recess (whichever is later)
Senate Committee Room 2
Senate Appropriations
Thursday, April 16
8:30 a.m.
Senate Committee Room 2
Senate Appropriations
Friday, April 17
8:30 a.m.
Senate Committee Room 2
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