State Legislation Supporting In-State Tuition and Financial Aid in Kansas

1. What is the current status of Kansas state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid for residents?


Currently, Kansas does not have any state legislation specifically supporting in-state tuition and financial aid for residents. However, state laws do allow certain categories of non-residents (such as military personnel and their dependents) to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at public universities. Additionally, the Kansas Board of Regents has established guidelines for determining residency status for tuition purposes.

2. Are undocumented or DACA recipients eligible for in-state tuition and financial aid in Kansas?

Kansas does not have any specific laws or policies regarding eligibility for in-state tuition and financial aid for undocumented individuals or DACA recipients. However, undocumented students may qualify for in-state tuition rates if they meet certain criteria, such as attending a Kansas high school for at least three years and graduating from a Kansas high school or obtaining a GED in the state. They can also apply for private scholarships that are open to undocumented students.

3. Are there any pending bills or proposed legislation that could potentially impact in-state tuition and financial aid eligibility?

As of 2021, there are no pending bills or proposed legislation specifically addressing in-state tuition and financial aid eligibility for residents of Kansas.

However, during the legislative session of 2019-2020, House Bill 2708 was introduced which would have allowed undocumented students who graduated from a Kansas high school to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities. The bill ultimately did not pass.

In addition, Governor Laura Kelly introduced legislation during her first year in office that would have allowed DACA recipients to receive state-funded scholarships to attend public colleges and universities. However, the bill did not advance out of committee.

4. Are there any organizations or resources available to assist students with understanding their eligibility for in-state tuition and financial aid?

The Kansas Board of Regents website provides information on guidelines for determining residency status and some resources related to paying for college.

Additionally, organizations like the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) offer online resources to help students determine their eligibility for in-state tuition and financial aid.

Students can also contact their college’s admissions or financial aid office for assistance and more information about potential resources available to them.

2. How does Kansas state legislation ensure affordable higher education for local students through in-state tuition?


Kansas state legislation ensures affordable higher education for local students through in-state tuition by setting guidelines for determining residency status for tuition purposes. In order to qualify for in-state tuition rates, a student must be able to prove that they are a permanent resident of Kansas, have lived in the state for at least one year, and demonstrate intent to make Kansas their permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include voter registration, employment history, and payment of Kansas state taxes.

Additionally, the Kansas Board of Regents sets maximum limits on tuition increases for public universities each year. This ensures that the cost of attending a public university in Kansas remains relatively stable and affordable for students.

Furthermore, the state legislature provides funding for need-based financial aid programs such as the Kansas Comprehensive Grant and the Career Technical Workforce Grant. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible students based on their demonstrated financial need or enrollment in specific career technical programs.

Lastly, Kansas has implemented partnerships with surrounding states through the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP) which allows out-of-state students from participating states to receive reduced tuition rates comparable to in-state rates. This provides an opportunity for local students to access higher education at reduced costs if they are unable to find their desired program within the state.

3. Which government agency is responsible for implementing and enforcing in-state tuition policies under Kansas state legislation?


The Kansas Board of Regents is responsible for implementing and enforcing in-state tuition policies under Kansas state legislation.

4. What are the eligibility requirements for students to qualify for in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation?


To qualify for in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Residency: Students must establish and maintain residency in the state of Kansas for at least 12 consecutive months prior to enrollment.

2. Domicile: Students must demonstrate that they have a permanent address and intend to make Kansas their permanent home.

3. Financial Independence: Students who are under the age of 24 must be financially independent from their parents or legal guardians for at least two years prior to enrollment.

4. High School Graduation: Students must have graduated from an accredited high school in Kansas or have completed a GED program in the state.

5. Military Service: Active duty military members stationed in Kansas and their dependents may qualify for in-state tuition.

6. Passport: Non-citizens who possess a current passport demonstrating lawful presence in the United States may be eligible for in-state tuition.

7. Employment: Students who have been continuously employed full-time (at least 30 hours per week) in Kansas for at least two years may qualify for in-state tuition.

8. Tax Documents: Students must provide tax documents, such as income tax returns, showing they have paid taxes or are claimed as dependents on taxes by a resident of Kansas.

9. Driver’s License and Vehicle Registration: Students are required to obtain a valid Kansas driver’s license and vehicle registration within 90 days of moving to the state to establish residency.

Note: These requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and can be subject to change at any time by the Kansas Board of Regents.

5. Has there been an increase in enrollment of local students due to the implementation of in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation?


It is possible that there has been an increase in local student enrollment at Kansas universities and colleges due to the implementation of in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation. However, this would require more research to determine for certain.

Some potential factors that could contribute to an increase in enrollment of local students include:

1. Lower cost: In-state tuition is typically lower than out-of-state tuition, making it more affordable for local students to attend college.

2. Financial assistance: Some states have financial aid programs specifically for in-state students, making college even more affordable for them.

3. Familiarity with the area: Local students may be more likely to attend a college or university near their home because they are familiar with the area and feel comfortable attending school there.

4. Stronger ties to community: Local students may feel a stronger connection to their community and want to stay close by while attending college.

However, it is important to note that there are also potential factors that could limit the impact of in-state tuition on local student enrollment, such as:

1. Admission requirements: In order to qualify for in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation, students must meet certain criteria, such as having attended high school in the state or living in the state for a certain period of time. These requirements may restrict some local students from being eligible for in-state tuition.

2. Limited availability of programs or majors at local institutions: Local students may still choose to attend out-of-state schools if they offer programs or majors that are not available at nearby institutions.

Overall, while it is possible that implementing in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation has led to an increase in local student enrollment at Kansas universities and colleges, further research would be needed to confirm this trend.

6. How has the availability of financial aid under Kansas state legislation impacted the cost of attending college for in-state students?


The availability of financial aid under Kansas state legislation has significantly impacted the cost of attending college for in-state students. This includes both need-based and merit-based financial aid programs.

Firstly, need-based aid programs such as the Kansas Comprehensive Grants and the Kansas Ethnic Minority Scholarship have greatly helped in reducing the financial burden on low-income and underrepresented minority students. These programs provide grants or scholarships that cover a significant portion of tuition and fees for eligible students, making college more affordable for them.

Secondly, merit-based aid programs like the Kansas State Scholars Award have motivated academically high-achieving students to attend college in their home state by providing them with substantial scholarships. This has not only reduced the overall cost of attendance for these students but has also resulted in a brain gain for the state as these top-performing students choose to stay and contribute to its workforce and economy.

Additionally, the Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant, which provides funding for technical education programs at community colleges, has made it possible for many students to pursue vocational training without facing financial barriers. This has not only led to a skilled workforce in the state but has also provided an accessible pathway to higher education for those who may not be able to afford a traditional four-year degree.

Moreover, by implementing policies such as freezing tuition rates at public universities and colleges, Kansas has also taken steps to control rising education costs for in-state students. This provides some stability in terms of planning for future costs and allows families to budget more effectively when considering higher education options.

Overall, the availability of financial aid under Kansas’ state legislation has played a crucial role in making college more affordable for in-state students. It has made higher education accessible to a wider range of individuals, allowing them to pursue their academic goals without being hindered by financial constraints.

7. Have other states modeled their own legislation regarding in-state tuition after Kansas’s successful policy?


Yes, several other states have modeled their own legislation after Kansas’s in-state tuition policy. As of 2021, there are currently 20 states that offer in-state tuition to undocumented students based on the criteria established by Kansas SB 424.

Some examples include:

1. Texas: In June 2015, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 1452 into law, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to qualify for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

2. California: In November 2001, California passed Assembly Bill 540, also known as the “California Dream Act,” which grants undocumented students in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

3. Colorado: In April 2013, Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper signed House Bill 13-1086 into law, which allows certain undocumented students to receive in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

4. Illinois: In August 2003, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich signed Senate Bill 2185 into law, allowing undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in the state.

5. New York: In April 2002, New York Governor George Pataki signed Senate Bill S6790 into law, allowing certain undocumented students to receive in-state tuition at public colleges and universities if they meet specific requirements.

Overall, the success of Kansas’s policy has served as an example for other states looking to provide educational opportunities for undocumented students.

8. What steps has Kansas taken to ensure that only eligible residents receive in-state tuition benefits under this legislation?


The following are the steps taken by Kansas to ensure that only eligible residents receive in-state tuition benefits under this legislation:

1. Establishing Eligibility Criteria: The state of Kansas has established specific eligibility criteria for in-state tuition, which includes residency requirements, high school attendance in the state for at least three years prior to graduation, and a commitment to applying for citizenship if the student is not already a citizen or permanent resident.

2. Verification of Residency: Students applying for in-state tuition benefits must provide documentation to prove their residency in Kansas. This may include a utility bill, lease agreement, or driver’s license.

3. Verification of High School Attendance: Students must provide proof of attending high school in Kansas for at least three years prior to graduation. This may include transcripts or a letter from the high school principal.

4. Confirmation of Intent to Seek Citizenship: Non-citizen students who are granted in-state tuition must sign an affidavit stating their intention to apply for citizenship as soon as they are eligible.

5. Review Process: The state conducts a thorough review process to verify the eligibility of each student who applies for in-state tuition under this legislation.

6. Implementation Guidelines: The Kansas Board of Regents has issued guidelines and procedures for colleges and universities to follow when implementing this legislation. These guidelines ensure consistent application and enforcement across all institutions.

7. Awareness Campaigns: The state has launched awareness campaigns to educate students and institutions about the requirements and process for receiving in-state tuition under this legislation.

8. Monitoring Compliance: The Kansas Board of Regents regularly monitors compliance with this legislation among colleges and universities to ensure that only eligible individuals are granted in-state tuition benefits.

9. Regular Audits: The state conducts regular audits of institutions offering in-state tuition under this legislation to ensure that they are adhering to the eligibility requirements and properly documenting student eligibility.

10. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Institutions found to be non-compliant with the eligibility requirements may face penalties, including fines and loss of the ability to offer in-state tuition benefits.

9. Does Kansas’s state legislation provide any exemptions or special considerations for undocumented or DACA-eligible students seeking in-state tuition?


Yes, Kansas state legislation does provide exemptions and special considerations for undocumented or DACA-eligible students seeking in-state tuition. Under Kansas’s Temporary Residency Status law, individuals who are not legally present in the United States but have been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status may be eligible for in-state tuition at public universities and community colleges in the state.

Additionally, the Kansas Board of Regents implemented a policy in 2012 allowing undocumented students who have completed three or more years of high school education in Kansas to pay in-state tuition at public institutions. This policy also applies to students with non-immigrant visas and those with temporary protected status.

In order to qualify for these exemptions, students must meet certain criteria such as attending a Kansas high school for at least three years and graduating or receiving a GED from a Kansas institution. They must also provide proof of having filed an application for lawful immigration status.

10. Are there any specific academic requirements that must be met by students seeking in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation?

Yes, students must meet the following academic requirements to be eligible for in-state tuition under Kansas state legislation:

1. High School Attendance: The student must have attended a Kansas high school for at least three years immediately preceding graduation or equivalent if the student graduated from a Kansas high school;
2. GED Completion: Have completed a General Educational Development (GED) test in Kansas;
3. Non-Delinquent Student record: Be a student without lawful immigration status and who has filed an application to legalize his or her immigration status or will do so when he or she is eligible; or who is without lawful immigration status and possesses an approved Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals application (DACA);
4. Residency: Reside with the person’s parent, guardian, spouse or other person who has custody of the student, AND be dependent on their parent/guardian/spouse for support, OR be emancipated by a court; file income taxes as an independent; having been in foster care; being homeless; Are over age 18 and legally married.
5. Acceptable proof showing dependancy or residency may include but are not limited to one of the following forms:
a) Based upon dependency
1. A copy of your parents’ 2012 US tax return
2. A letter from your parents stating that you are still considered their dependent child (financially supported by them)
b) Based upon shared residence
1. County appraiser’s records showing ownership of property within KS.
2. Apartment Keys – Current Rental Lease Agreements/Property Management Ledger statement AND
· ONE UTILITY Payment Receipts from past SIX Months;
OR
· TWO PIECES of Mail From Both STATES mailed to same address from Approved Correspondents List
No one document can be used more than once to satisfy this requirement.

6. Enrollment Requirements: Must enroll into one year during which student enrolls but does not have to continuously enroll; Must register as male if required by federal law to do so;
7. High School Graduation: Be a student who has graduated or will graduate from an accredited Kansas secondary school or state approved home school program within the next 12 months.
8. Transcript Submission: Submit a high school transcript and/or GED scores to the admissions office of the institution where seeking in-state tuition. If student is entitled under section 11 above, you must submit a copy of an application to legalize immigration status.

Note: Enrollment in any one year during which a qualifying illegal immigrant has enrolled at KSU shall be considered as enrollment for all years that person remains continuously enrolled at Kansas State University so long as the student does not attend college outside of Kansas for two consecutive years or more.

For more detailed information on specific requirements and criteria for eligibility, students should contact their selected institution’s admissions office, registrar’s office, campus financial aid office or K-State Office of Student Financial Assistance.

11. Has there been any opposition or pushback from out-of-state students or universities due to the implementation of this legislation regarding in-state tuition?


Yes, there have been some objections and pushback from out-of-state students and universities regarding the implementation of in-state tuition legislation. Some out-of-state students and their families may perceive it as unfair that in-state students are receiving a lower tuition rate while they are required to pay a higher rate. In addition, some universities that heavily rely on out-of-state tuition may oppose the legislation because it could potentially decrease their revenue.

However, supporters of in-state tuition argue that it promotes diversity on campus and can attract talented students from other states, benefiting the overall academic environment. They also argue that it makes education more affordable for all students, regardless of their state residency.

Overall, opinions on in-state tuition legislation vary among individuals and institutions. There may continue to be opposition and pushback from certain groups, but ultimately it will depend on how each state implements the legislation and its impact on different stakeholders.

12. How has Kansas’s economy and job market benefited from having more qualified local graduates with access to affordable higher education through this legislation?


The legislation has likely had a positive impact on Kansas’s economy and job market in the following ways:

1. Increased number of qualified graduates: By providing more affordable access to higher education, the legislation has likely increased the number of students completing their degrees in Kansas. This means that there are more qualified graduates entering the job market with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of employers.

2. Higher retention rates: With reduced financial burden, students are more likely to complete their degree programs in Kansas instead of seeking education out-of-state. This leads to a higher retention rate of talent within the state, which can benefit local businesses and industries.

3. Workforce development: The legislation may have encouraged more individuals to pursue higher education, leading to a better-skilled workforce in Kansas. This can attract new businesses to the state and help existing businesses thrive by having access to a pool of highly qualified candidates for employment.

4. Stronger local economy: As more students graduate with less debt, they are likely to have more disposable income which they can then use for consumer spending or start their own business, fueling economic growth within Kansas.

5. Attracting new industries: Affordable higher education can be an attractive factor for companies considering relocating or expanding into Kansas. Companies may see this as an opportunity to tap into a well-educated workforce without having to pay high relocation packages or education reimbursements.

6. Higher tax revenues: As graduates secure jobs and earn higher salaries due to their qualifications, they contribute more in taxes which can benefit the overall state budget and fund other public services.

7. Improved innovation and research: Higher education institutions affiliated with this legislation may attract grant funding for research projects, advancing innovation within key industries in Kansas.

Overall, providing affordable access to higher education through this legislation is likely to lead to a more educated and skilled workforce, stronger economy, and improved job market in Kansas over time.

13. Have there been any challenges or limitations faced by institutions receiving funding from financial aid programs established by Kansas state legislation?


There may be several challenges faced by institutions receiving funding from financial aid programs established by Kansas state legislation. Some of these challenges could include:

1) Budget constraints – State funding for financial aid programs may not always be sufficient to meet the needs of all eligible students, leading to limited availability and competition among students for aid.

2) Eligibility criteria – Certain programs may have strict eligibility requirements, such as specific income thresholds or academic achievement, making it difficult for some students to qualify.

3) Inadequate outreach and awareness – Some students may not be aware of the financial aid options available to them, particularly if they come from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds. This could result in lower participation rates and underserving of those in need.

4) Administrative hurdles – The application process for financial aid can be lengthy and complicated, which could discourage some students from applying or result in delays in receiving funds.

5) Limited funding for non-traditional students – Many state-funded financial aid programs are geared towards traditional college-aged students, making it challenging for adult learners or part-time students to access these resources.

6) Restrictions on types of institutions – Some financial aid programs may only cover tuition at specific types of institutions (such as public universities), limiting access for students who choose to attend private or out-of-state schools.

7) Dependence on continued state funding – Financial aid programs are subject to annual budget appropriations by the state government. Any cuts or changes in funding could impact the availability of aid for future years.

8) Varying program rules and regulations – Institutions may face challenges in administering different financial aid programs that have varying rules and regulations established by the state legislature. This could create confusion and additional administrative burden.

Overall, while state-funded financial aid programs can greatly benefit eligible students, they also face challenges that limit their effectiveness and impact. It is important for policymakers to continually review and address these challenges to ensure that these programs are accessible and successful in supporting students’ educational pursuits.

14. How have local universities and colleges responded to the increased demand for attending as a result of this supportive financial aid provision under Kansas state legislation?

I am sorry, I cannot provide information on specific state legislation and its impact on local universities and colleges. This question would be better addressed to a representative from the higher education institutions in Kansas or a relevant government agency.

15. Have there been any amendments or updates made to the original version of this law regarding in-state tuition since its enactment?


The answer to this question is not provided in the original text of the law, so it is difficult to confirm if there have been any amendments or updates made since its enactment. It is recommended to consult with a legal expert or review the state’s legislative website for any relevant changes to the law regarding in-state tuition.

16. How are the funds for in-state tuition and financial aid allocated and distributed under Kansas state legislation?


The funds for in-state tuition and financial aid are allocated and distributed under Kansas state legislation through the Department of Education’s Higher Education Coordinating Council (HECC). The HECC is responsible for determining the amount of funding available for higher education institutions in the state, including public universities and colleges.

The funds are then distributed to eligible institutions based on their enrollment, academic programs, and other factors determined by the HECC. The institution then uses these funds to determine the amount of financial aid a student may receive based on their demonstrated need.

In some cases, scholarship programs or targeted financial aid may also be funded by separate legislation or grants from various sources.

Overall, the goal of these allocation and distribution processes is to ensure that eligible Kansas residents have access to affordable higher education at in-state institutions.

17. Does Kansas’s state legislation prioritize or give preference to certain fields of study or professions when awarding financial aid to students?


No, Kansas’s state legislation does not prioritize or give preference to certain fields of study or professions when awarding financial aid to students. Financial aid in Kansas is primarily based on a student’s demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, and enrollment status. Some scholarships or grants may have specific eligibility criteria that require applicants to major in a certain field, but these opportunities are typically not controlled by state legislation.

18. What plans does Kansas have in place to continue supporting affordable higher education for residents through this legislation in the future?


Kansas has several plans in place to continue supporting affordable higher education for residents through this legislation in the future. These include:

1. Continued funding for the Kansas Promise Scholarship program: The Kansas Promise Scholarship program, which provides last-dollar scholarships to students attending community or technical colleges, will continue to receive funding through the state budget. This will ensure that students who are economically disadvantaged can still access affordable higher education.

2. Implementation of performance-based funding for public universities: The new legislation also requires state universities to implement performance-based funding, which rewards institutions based on their graduation rates, job placement of graduates, and other metrics. This will encourage schools to provide students with a high-quality education at an affordable cost.

3. Expanded tax credit programs for donors: In order to incentivize private support for higher education, the legislation expands existing tax credit programs for donors who contribute to scholarships and financial aid funds benefiting low-income students.

4. Increased state financial aid opportunities: The state has increased the amount of money available in its financial aid programs such as Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant and Kansas Comprehensive Grant. This allows more students from low-income families to receive financial assistance while pursuing higher education.

5. Support for military and veteran students: The legislation also includes provisions that help military and veteran students access affordable higher education. For example, it allows veterans who have exhausted their GI Bill benefits to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities.

6. Collaboration with employers to offer tuition assistance: The state encourages partnerships between businesses and community/technical colleges so that employees can receive tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing their education.

7. Expansion of online learning opportunities: The new legislation promotes online learning by expanding distance learning initiatives in public colleges and universities across the state. This not only offers flexibility to students but also reduces costs associated with attending traditional classes on campus.

By implementing these measures and continuously evaluating their effectiveness, Kansas aims to ensure that residents have access to affordable higher education for years to come.

19. What resources or assistance is available for students and families seeking more information about in-state tuition and financial aid opportunities under Kansas state legislation?


Students and families seeking more information about in-state tuition and financial aid opportunities under Kansas state legislation can utilize the following resources:

1. Kansas Board of Regents: The Kansas Board of Regents is responsible for overseeing and regulating the state’s public higher education system, including handling in-state tuition eligibility and financial aid programs. They have a website that provides information on residency requirements, application procedures, and updates on state legislation related to tuition and financial aid.

2. College Advising Corps (CAC): CAC is a non-profit organization that works with low-income, first-generation college students to increase their access to higher education. CAC advisors are available at select high schools in Kansas to provide guidance on college admissions, financial aid, and scholarships.

3. FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to accessing federal and state financial aid programs. Students are required to fill out the FAFSA each year to determine their eligibility for grants, loans, work-study opportunities, and other types of aid.

4. Local Community Colleges: Community colleges in Kansas offer affordable tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students. They also have flexible enrollment options such as part-time or online courses that can help students save money while pursuing their degree.

5. Financial Aid Office at Universities: Each university has a dedicated financial aid office to assist students with understanding the cost of attendance, scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities available at their institution. Students can reach out to these offices for personalized assistance.

6. Scholarships: There are various scholarship opportunities available specifically for students attending college in Kansas or from specific regions within the state. Students can search for these scholarships through websites like FastWeb or through their school’s scholarship database.

7. State Legislation Updates: It is essential for students to stay informed about any changes or updates made by the state legislature regarding residency requirements or tuition rates. Students can follow the Kansas state legislation website for updates or regularly check their school’s website for any policy changes.

8. Parent Education Programs: Some colleges and universities in Kansas offer parent education programs to help families understand the financial aid process and resources available to them.

9. High School Guidance Counselors: High school guidance counselors are an excellent resource for students seeking information on higher education options and financial aid opportunities. They can also provide personalized guidance on completing the FAFSA and applying for scholarships.

10. Financial Literacy Programs: Many colleges and universities in Kansas offer financial literacy programs to students to help them understand how to manage their finances while in college and beyond. These programs can provide valuable information on budgeting, managing loans, and avoiding debt.

20. How has the overall educational attainment level and success rate of local college students changed since the enactment of Kansas’s state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid programs?


It is difficult to accurately determine how exactly the overall educational attainment level and success rate of local college students has changed since the enactment of Kansas’s state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid programs, as there are many factors that can influence these measures. However, there are some potential impacts that could be attributed to these policies:

1. Increase in enrollment: The availability of in-state tuition and financial aid programs may have led to an increase in enrollment at local colleges, as it becomes more affordable for students from low-income families to attend college.

2. Higher graduation rates: With increased access to education through in-state tuition and financial aid, it is possible that graduation rates have also improved. This is because students who might not have been able to afford college previously now have the means to complete their degree.

3. More diverse student body: Providing in-state tuition and financial aid programs can also attract a more diverse student body, including undocumented students who may not have had access to higher education before.

4. Improved job prospects: By increasing access to higher education, the state legislation may also lead to improved job prospects for graduates, leading to higher earning potential and potentially boosting economic growth.

However, it should be noted that the impact of these policies on educational attainment and success rate may vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the resources and support available to each student.

Overall, while it is difficult to quantify the specific extent of change in educational attainment and success rate among local college students since the enactment of state legislation supporting in-state tuition and financial aid programs, it is likely that these policies have had a positive impact on providing access to education for low-income families and improving overall educational outcomes.