North Lancaster News

Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Senator Scott Martin, Senate Majority Whip Ryan P. Aument, Senate Education Committee Chair David G. Argall, and Senator Tracy Pennycuick have introduced the "Grow PA" plan aimed at supporting more affordable learning opportunities and pathways to Pennsylvania careers. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of addressing the economic and demographic challenges facing the state due to dwindling college enrollment and outmigration of young people.

Senator Martin stated, “Pennsylvania needs a fresh approach to post-secondary education to ensure we can be more competitive and overcome the economic and demographic challenges that threaten our state’s future."

Senator Aument highlighted the need for a performance-based funding model to focus state resources on programs aligned with in-demand career fields in Pennsylvania. He emphasized the importance of creating a direct pipeline from higher education institutions to Pennsylvania jobs.

Senator Argall emphasized the significance of quality higher education in improving students' lives and strengthening communities. He noted the necessity of guiding students towards high-demand careers to enhance the state's competitiveness.

Senator Pennycuick emphasized the importance of funding students over systems, stating, “A highly skilled workforce is the bedrock of any strong economy and the best way for Pennsylvania to invest in higher education is to fund the student, not systems."

The "Grow PA" plan includes the creation of new programs such as the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program and Merit Scholarship Program, aimed at incentivizing students to stay and work in Pennsylvania after completing their studies. The plan also expands existing higher education assistance programs and promotes universal completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help students make informed decisions about their post-secondary education.

The plan also introduces a performance-based funding model for state-related universities to ensure accountability and maximize the benefit to Pennsylvania taxpayers. The plan is seen as a responsible alternative to Governor Shapiro’s higher education proposals.

Representative Jesse Topper, Republican Chair of the House Education Committee, collaborated on the plan and intends to lead the introduction of the bills in the House of Representatives.

The "Grow PA" plan aims to make Pennsylvania more competitive in attracting and retaining students for quality careers, ultimately benefiting the state's economy and workforce.