South Lancaster News

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved a series of bills aimed at expanding affordable post-secondary education and career preparation opportunities for students. The bipartisan package, known as Grow PA, seeks to connect students with high-demand careers within the state.

Senate Bill 1150, introduced by Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Senator Scott Martin (R-Lancaster), proposes the creation of the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program. This program would offer grants up to $5,000 annually for in-state students attending Pennsylvania colleges who pursue degrees in high-demand industries and commit to living and working in those fields within the state after graduation. Recipients must reside and work in Pennsylvania for at least 15 months per year they receive the grant; otherwise, the grant converts into a loan.

High-demand industries covered by this bill include agriculture, computer science, criminal justice, business, education, engineering, nursing, trades, special education, STEM education, and allied health. Adjustments to these industries can be made in consultation with the Independent Fiscal Office.

Senate Bill 1151 also sponsored by Martin aims to attract high-performing out-of-state students through the Grow PA Merit Scholarship Program. This initiative allows these students to pay in-state tuition rates if they enroll in Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) schools and agree to work in high-demand occupations within Pennsylvania post-graduation.

“Pennsylvania faces serious economic and demographic challenges in the years ahead as more and more of our young people are pursuing education and employment opportunities in other states,” Martin said. “Grow PA sends a powerful message that if young people are willing to learn here and put down roots here, we’re willing to invest in their future in Pennsylvania.”

Senate Bill 1152 by Senator Devlin Robinson (R-Allegheny) seeks to expand the Ready to Succeed Scholarship Program by increasing household income limits from $126,000 to $175,000 and lowering GPA requirements to 2.5. This expansion could potentially benefit an additional 24,000 students.

“I am thrilled to sponsor legislation to expand the popular Ready to Succeed Scholarship Program,” Robinson stated. “I hear from my constituents constantly about the struggle of student loans and debt just because they want to further their education.”

Senate Bill 1153 introduced by Senator Tracy Pennycuick (R-Montgomery) would extend the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program nationwide for foster children attending PASSHE schools. Currently limited to children adopted or fostered within Pennsylvania, this bill would waive tuition fees after applying federal and state grants.

“Many of our young talented individuals are simply in need of a chance to succeed,” Pennycuick remarked. “Let’s give foster care kids across the nation the opportunity they seek right here in Pennsylvania.”

Senate Bill 1154 proposed by Senate Majority Whip Ryan P. Aument (R-Lancaster) introduces performance-based metrics for funding state-related universities such as University of Pittsburgh, Penn State University, and Temple University. A new Performance-based Funding Council will develop standards considering factors like graduation rates and employment outcomes.

“A performance-based funding model will ensure our universities are focusing on important issues facing students,” Aument said.

Lastly, Senate Bill 1155 from Senate Education Committee Chair David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill) calls for establishing a Higher Education Task Force aimed at improving higher education programs through various initiatives including community college transfers and dual enrollment expansions.

“The pressing issues facing our colleges and universities will not be solved overnight,” Argall noted.

Additionally included is Senate Bill 750 requiring high school seniors complete FAFSA forms before graduation ensuring access to financial aid information for higher education pursuits. Approved last June by the Senate it now awaits House consideration.

The Grow PA plan also encompasses significant investments in career technical education along with dual enrollment programs.

___