The bill amends the "Michigan Reconnect Grant Recipient Act" to adjust eligibility criteria and program details for individuals seeking financial assistance for education. Notably, the minimum age requirement for applicants is changed from 25 to 21, provided that sufficient funds are appropriated to expand the program. This change applies to both the Michigan Reconnect Grant and the Reconnect Short-Term Training Program, with the reduced age limit set to expire after the state fiscal year ending September 30, 2032. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals must be enrolled in Pell-eligible programs and have not previously earned an associate or baccalaureate degree to qualify for the grants.

The bill also establishes a framework for the Reconnect Short-Term Training Program, which provides skills scholarships of up to $1,500 for participants in approved occupational training programs. The department is tasked with developing application processes, approving training programs, and maintaining a list of qualified options for potential scholarship recipients. Furthermore, recipients of skills scholarships will remain eligible for the Michigan Reconnect Grant program to pursue further education, with community colleges encouraged to convert completed coursework into credit where possible. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of Senate Bill No. 233.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 390.1711
As Passed by the Senate: 390.1711