This bill requires Massachusetts public high schools to ensure all students submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) before graduation, with clear exemptions for students or parents who decline. Schools must provide support for FAFSA completion and use accessible, multilingual forms for opt-outs - no citizenship questions required. It creates a dedicated FAFSA Trust Fund (effective 2026) to support schools in implementation, including training and workshops for underserved communities, funded by state appropriations and private donations. The law mandates annual reporting on FAFSA submission rates and exemptions, broken down by demographics, with the school requirement taking effect in 2027.
By Mr. Kennedy, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2025) of Edward J. Kennedy for legislation to establish the Massachusetts student relief and retention tax credit. Revenue.
This bill creates state-funded "promise scholarship accounts" for Massachusetts students attending private schools or using approved educational services. It allows parents to use state funds for tuition at participating private schools, community college, tutoring, therapy services, approved technology, and transportation (capped at $500 annually). To qualify, students must reside in Massachusetts, have attended a public school for at least 6 weeks, and parents must sign an agreement committing to provide specific education subjects and not enroll the student in public or charter schools while using the account. The program excludes students receiving special education services paid for by public schools and requires private schools to meet financial, safety, and teacher qualification standards. Funds are directed solely based on parental choice, with no implication that public schools failed to provide appropriate education.
By Mr. Fattman, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1984) of Ryan C. Fattman and Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to establish an empowerment scholarship tax credit to expand educational opportunities and fair access to quality education for low-and-moderate-income students. Revenue.
By Representative Galvin of Canton (by request), a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 581) of Paul McAuliffe for legislation to create promise scholarship accounts composed of state funds deposited on behalf of participating students to be used for qualified education expenses. Education.
By Mr. Fattman, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1984) of Ryan C. Fattman and Bruce E. Tarr for legislation to establish an empowerment scholarship tax credit to expand educational opportunities and fair access to quality education for low-and-moderate-income students. Revenue.
By Mr. Moore, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 2045) of Michael O. Moore for legislation to establish a college tuition tax deduction. Revenue.
