In 2025, Massachusetts will introduce MassEducate, a state-sponsored initiative that aims to provide free community college tuition and fees for its residents. The program will be fully funded by the tax imposed on the state’s millionaire residents.
The proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year includes an investment of $75.5 million in state funds to cover tuition and fees for community college students. This move follows in the footsteps of President Joe Biden, who has also proposed a plan for free community college education nationally in his fiscal 2025 budget.
State Sen. Michael J. Rodrigues, chair of the Senate’s Ways and Means Committee, emphasized that the community college program in Massachusetts will benefit the state’s workforce and future generations by providing access to higher education opportunities for individuals in need. The initiative is designed to support those who may not otherwise have the chance to pursue higher education, thus preparing the workforce to face the challenges of a global economy.
Rodrigues highlighted that the tuition-free Community College program aims to level the playing field for low-income students by providing additional assistance such as stipends of up to $1,200 for books, supplies, and other expenses for students with incomes at or below 125% of the state’s median income. Moreover, there will be a $10 million student persistence fund to assist community college students facing significant financial hardships that may impact their studies.
