The bill amends the 1966 PA 313, which establishes tuition grants for resident students enrolled in independent nonprofit institutions of higher learning in Michigan. Key changes include the redefinition of eligible institutions to ensure they comply with civil rights laws and are not solely focused on sectarian instruction. The bill also updates the administrative responsibilities from the Michigan higher education assistance authority to the department of lifelong education, advancement, and potential, which will now oversee the grant distribution process. Additionally, the bill specifies that grants must be available to both undergraduate and graduate students, with priority given to full-time students.

Further provisions clarify the eligibility criteria for students applying for grants, including residency requirements and the necessity to maintain satisfactory academic progress. The bill stipulates that grants cannot exceed the tuition and fees reported by the eligible institutions and introduces a mechanism for prorated payments. It also establishes that students receiving certain state competitive scholarships or full tuition coverage from private institutions are ineligible for these grants, while allowing for proportionate grants in cases of partial coverage. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the process and ensure that financial assistance is effectively allocated to support higher education in Michigan.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 390.991