The bill amends the Kansas promise scholarship program to expand the eligibility of postsecondary educational institutions that can participate in the program. It updates the definition of "eligible postsecondary educational institution" to include not only community colleges and technical colleges but also private institutions that meet specific criteria, such as being accredited and recognized by the state board of regents. The bill also clarifies the definition of "promise eligible program" and establishes the criteria for scholarship amounts based on the type of institution attended, while ensuring that the total scholarship amount does not exceed the average costs associated with public institutions.
Additionally, the bill increases the appropriation limit for the Kansas promise scholarship program from $10 million to $15 million per fiscal year. It specifies that scholarships are available only to students whose family household income meets certain thresholds and outlines the conditions under which the funds can be used, including restrictions on funding for prerequisite and remedial courses. The bill also mandates that the state board of regents disburse funds based on reimbursement requests from eligible institutions, ensuring timely financial support for students enrolled in promise eligible programs.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 74-32
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}: 74-32