State lawmakers discussed during budget hearings Tuesday how they can help more Georgia students enroll in college, stay there and take the classes they need.
Gov. Nathan Deal’s proposed budget increases general spending for the University System of Georgia by nearly $117 million, to about $2.4 billion and the Technical College System of Georgia by $5.7 million to a total of nearly $367 million. The budget includes a 3 percent increase in HOPE scholarships and grants, totaling about $68.1 million.
Deal also wants to add $51 million to the USG's budget for enrollment growth. The University System of Georgia reported enrollment at its institutions for the fall 2017 semester was at an all-time high, with more than 325,000 students.
Lawmakers didn’t quibble about proposed funding but some asked questions about various operations. State Rep. Ed Setzler, R-Acworth, asked USG officials about concerns he said he’s heard from some students that they’re being directed to take more online courses, instead of those inside a classroom where they can get more hands-on instruction.
“ ‘The only way I can get the course is through an online course,’ ” Setzler said he heard from one student.
USG Chancellor Steve Wrigley said there has not been an effort to push students toward online classes, although it’s becoming an increasingly popular option, but said he would look into the lawmaker’s concerns.
Lawmakers also asked why there wasn’t an increase to the low-interest student loan program under the Georgia Student Finance Commission. Officials explained the budget would increase from its current total, about $27 million, to about $35 million, as some students repaid the loans.
Earlier this month, the Georgia Budget & Policy Institute released a report that urged state leaders to create more ways to help financially struggling students. Georgia, the report said, is one of only two states that lacks broad need-based financial aid. Such a commitment would cost Georgia $211 million, the report said.
They also recommended the state remove the seven-year time limit on HOPE scholarships. The report notes more older students are pursuing degrees and need more time to complete their education.
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