The bill amends the "Michigan Reconnect Grant Recipient Act" to adjust eligibility criteria for individuals seeking financial assistance for education and training. Notably, the minimum age requirement for applicants is reduced from 25 to 21, provided that sufficient funds are appropriated to expand the program. This change is temporary and cannot be applied after the state fiscal year ending September 30, 2032. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals must be enrolled in a Pell-eligible program and have not previously earned an associate or baccalaureate degree to qualify for the grant.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a reconnect short-term training program aimed at providing skills scholarships to eligible individuals. The scholarships, capped at $1,500, are intended to cover tuition costs for approved occupational training programs. The bill mandates that the department maintain a list of qualified training programs and requires compliance with data requests from training institutions. It also ensures that recipients of skills scholarships remain eligible for the Michigan Reconnect Grant program to pursue further education after completing their training.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 390.1711