HB343 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Victor Gaston

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Student Grant Program, cap increased on grant amount from $1,200 to $3,000 per academic year, Sec. 16-33A-3 am'd.

Summary

HB343 would raise the Alabama Student Grant cap from $1,200 to $3,000 per academic year for eligible resident students attending approved independent colleges or universities in Alabama, funded by legislative appropriations.

What This Bill Does

It increases the grant amount to up to $3,000 per academic year (subject to the state budget). The money is distributed to the student’s eligible institution on the student’s behalf, with administration rules set by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education. The grant continues to apply to eligible students attending approved Alabama independent colleges or universities, and the amount depends on available appropriations.

Who It Affects

• Eligible resident students who attend an approved independent college or university in Alabama, who could receive up to $3,000 per academic year (subject to appropriations).
• Approved independent colleges and universities in Alabama, which receive the grant funds on behalf of students and apply them to the students’ financial aid under ACHE rules.
• The Alabama Commission on Higher Education, which would promulgate/adopt rules and regulations to administer the grant program.

Key Provisions

• Section 16-33A-3 is amended to increase the grant from $1,200 per academic year to $3,000 per academic year, with the amount dependent on legislative appropriations.
• Grants are distributed to the eligible institution on behalf of the student and to the student's credit, under rules adopted by the Alabama Commission on Higher Education.
• The grant applies to qualified students enrolled in eligible programs (as previously established in the statute, with programs commencing after August 1, 1989).
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor's approval, or as otherwise law.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Student Grant Program