2019 Senate Bill 268 / 2020 Public Act 84

Gov. Whitmer’s “Michigan Reconnect” scholarship proposal

Introduced in the Senate

April 16, 2019

Introduced by Sen. Ken Horn (R-32)

To authorize a college grant program for individuals age 25 and above, with grants in the amount needed to cover tuition and fees for career-oriented classes at a community college, or an apprenticeship program, above the amount covered by other scholarships and government aid. This is the “Michigan Reconnect” program proposed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her 2019 State of the State address.

Referred to the Committee on Appropriations

March 12, 2020

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-4) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Passed in the Senate 36 to 2 (details)

To authorize a college grant program for individuals age 25 and above, with grants in the amount needed to cover tuition and fees for career-oriented classes at a community college that is above the amount covered by other scholarships and government aid. It would also authorize one-time grants of $1,500 for completing a private apprenticeship program. This is the “Michigan Reconnect” program proposed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her 2019 State of the State address, and is projected to cost $46.3 million.

Received in the House

March 12, 2020

March 17, 2020

Substitute offered by Rep. Ben Frederick (R-85)

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details but does not change the substance as previously described.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Passed in the House 81 to 12 (details)

To authorize a college grant program for individuals age 25 and above, with grants in the amount needed to cover tuition and fees for career-oriented classes at a community college that is above the amount covered by other scholarships and government aid. It would also authorize one-time grants of $1,500 for completing a private apprenticeship program. This is the “Michigan Reconnect” program proposed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in her 2019 State of the State address, and is projected to cost $46.3 million.

Received in the Senate

March 17, 2020

Passed in the Senate 35 to 2 (details)

Signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

April 2, 2020