Substitute Bill No. 6885 seeks to enhance the Debt-Free Community College Program in Connecticut, effective July 1, 2025, by repealing and replacing Section 10a-174 of the general statutes. The bill updates the terminology from "regional community-technical colleges" to "Connecticut State Community College," thereby specifically targeting this institution. It refines the definition of a "qualifying student" to include high school graduates enrolled in degree or certificate programs at the Connecticut State Community College, as well as in-state students who are making satisfactory academic progress. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for students who have completed at least sixty credits through the program to receive continued financial support when they transition to state universities within the Connecticut State University System or The University of Connecticut.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a "finish line scholars program" that provides financial awards to qualifying full-time and part-time students at state universities. It defines a "full-time student" as one carrying twelve or more credit hours per semester, with accommodations for those with documented learning disabilities. The awards will cover the unpaid portion of eligible institutional costs after financial aid is applied, with minimum amounts set at $500 for full-time and $300 for part-time students. The Board of Regents for Higher Education and the Board of Trustees of The University of Connecticut are tasked with implementing the program, ensuring that it does not supplant existing financial aid, and reporting on its outcomes to the General Assembly. The program will be available for the first seventy-two credit hours earned or until a bachelor's degree is obtained, whichever comes first.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-89
HED Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 457:
APP Joint Favorable: