
Legislation Prohibiting Mandatory Meal Plans Dies in House Subcommittee
Legislation prohibiting public institutions of higher education from requiring students to purchase meal plans died this week in the House Education Administration and Planning Subcommittee.

Vote to Tie Quality Assurance Funding to Teacher Preparation Programs Deferred Until Next Week
Lawmakers in the House Education Instruction & Programs Subcommittee heard testimonies on a bill that would impact how higher education performance funding is awarded in Tennessee. A vote was ultimately deferred until next week.

Governor Haslam Unveils Final Priorities in State of the State Address
Governor Bill Haslam unveiled his 2018 priorities Monday evening at his final State of the State Address, presenting a $37.5 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2018-19, with significant initiatives aimed at the state’s opioid crisis and college completion. The college completion initiative—“Complete to Compete”—would require students receiving HOPE and Tennessee Promise Scholarships to take … Continued

Proposed Haslam Budget Provides Critical Higher Education Funding
Governor Bill Haslam unveiled his FY 2017-18 budget proposal on Monday evening at the State of the State Address, presenting a $37 billion spending plan with significant investments in higher education. The Governor’s budget fully funds the performance-based funding formula for higher education, providing $25 million in new funds to be allocated amongst Tennessee’s public … Continued

House Members Take Bill Off Notice Requiring Public Hearings on Petitions Over 5,000 Signatures at State Colleges and Universities
House Education Administration and Planning Subcommittee members took a bill off notice this week that required state colleges and universities to host a public meeting with opportunities for public comment on all petitions created by students, alumni, faculty, or staff receiving more than 5,000 signatures.