Georgia Senate passes bills on tuition grants and chronic absenteeism in schools

In a significant session of the Georgia House of Representatives on March 25, 2025, lawmakers advanced several key pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing education and workforce development in the state. The discussions highlighted a commitment to improving educational outcomes and addressing chronic absenteeism among students.

One of the most notable bills passed was Senate Bill 193, which introduces a pay-for-performance model for contractors involved in educational programs. This model stipulates that contractors will only receive payment if participants successfully earn their diplomas. This approach aims to ensure accountability and effectiveness in educational initiatives, aligning financial incentives with student success.

Additionally, Senate Bill 149, presented by Representative Houston Gaines, focuses on the Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) program. This bill seeks to maintain rigorous standards for private colleges in Georgia, allowing newly accredited institutions to participate in the program. The TEG program provides financial assistance to Georgia residents attending eligible private colleges, currently offering $550 per semester. By ensuring that only accredited institutions can benefit, the bill aims to uphold educational quality and support students in their pursuit of higher education.

Another critical topic addressed was chronic absenteeism in public schools, as outlined in Senate Bill 123. Chairman Matt Dubnick emphasized the alarming statistic that 22.6% of students in Georgia were chronically absent, equating to approximately 380,000 young people missing significant portions of the school year. The bill defines chronic absenteeism and mandates that school districts with high absentee rates establish attendance review teams. This measure is seen as a proactive step toward improving student attendance and, consequently, educational outcomes.

The passage of these bills reflects a broader commitment by Georgia lawmakers to enhance educational opportunities and address pressing issues within the state's school systems. As the session progresses, the implications of these legislative actions will likely resonate throughout the community, impacting students, educators, and families across Georgia. The House's unanimous support for these initiatives indicates a strong bipartisan effort to prioritize education and workforce readiness in the state.