Otter proposes ‘tuition lock’ program, scholarships, higher ed $$ boost

Idaho college students would see a new “tuition lock” program, under Gov. Butch Otter’s proposed budget for next year, designed to guarantee that if they finish college in four years and maintain acceptable grades, their tuition won’t go up from its freshman-year level. “That brings greater financial predictability for Idaho students and their families while also providing an incentive for timely completion of a degree or professional certification program,” Otter told lawmakers in his State of the State and budget message.

The “Tuition Lock” program wouldn’t cost anything the first year, but Otter is recommending transferring $10 million to the higher education reserve fund to cover any unanticipated costs, either in the coming year or into the future; he’ll also recommend ongoing funding.

Overall, Otter is recommending an 8.8 percent increase for Idaho’s public four-year colleges and universities next year; a 9.6 percent hike for community colleges; and a 10.4 percent increase for professional-technical education.

He’s also recommending $10 million for new scholarships: A $5 million increase for the existing Opportunity Scholarship, plus another $5 million for a new “Completion Scholarship.” “It’s designed to encourage Idaho citizens who have some post-secondary education to return to the classroom and finish up,” Otter said. “It will provide a real benefit for financially strapped adults who are trying to upgrade their job skills.”

He said, “The Completion Scholarship is aimed at improving access and affordability to career-oriented education programs while helping to address our pressing workforce development needs.”