This bill amends various provisions related to programs administered by the College Student Aid Commission (CSAC) in Iowa, with a primary focus on enhancing support for students pursuing career-technical education. A significant change is the establishment of a skilled workforce shortage tuition grant program fund, which will be funded by appropriations from the general fund starting July 1, 2026. The maximum grant amount under the skilled workforce shortage tuition grant program is increased to 100% of the average community college tuition and fee rate, up from the previous limit of 50%. Additionally, the bill eliminates the requirement for students to achieve a specific grade point average to qualify for grants under the Iowa workforce grant and incentive program, and mandates the submission of the free application for federal student aid for grant evaluation.

The bill also repeals existing Code sections related to the vocational-technical tuition grants program and the future ready Iowa skilled workforce last-dollar scholarship program, transferring any unencumbered funds to the new skilled workforce shortage tuition grant program fund. It revises the gap tuition assistance program by removing coverage for tuition costs of eligible certificate training programs, now only covering direct training and support services, required books and equipment, specified fees, and direct staff support services. Consequently, the program's name is changed to the gap assistance program, and conforming changes are made throughout the legislation to streamline the administration of financial assistance programs in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15H.10, 84A.12, 256.228, 256.194, 256.227, 256.229, 256.230, 12C.7, 260I.1, 260I.2, 260I.3, 260I.4, 260I.5, 260I.8, 260I.9