THE state’s fast-growing scholarship program for low- and middle-income students is in desperate need of a permanent funding source. Whether dedicating a percentage of the state’s income tax revenue is the answer remains to be seen.
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That’s the idea Gov. Brad Henry put forth last week, saying that earmarking 1.25 percent of the income tax revenue would provide $36 million for the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program. We’ve said before that the scholarship program, also known as Oklahoma’s Promise, deserves permanent funding to make sure it continues and the state doesn’t renege on its commitment.
Students must keep up their grades, take college-preparatory courses and stay out of trouble to qualify for the equivalent of four years of tuition at a public college or university in Oklahoma. Students also can use some of the money at private institutions or for training at career technology centers.
Thousands of Oklahoma students have pursued higher education at state expense since the program debuted in 1992. Just this year, about 15,000 students are benefiting.
With a process that combines need — students must come from families making $50,000 or less annually — and merit, the program has proven successful. Scholarship recipients are more likely to post higher high school grades, are better prepared for college, need less remediation and finish their degrees at a rate higher than their peers.
Rep. Ken Miller, Republican vice chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Committee, criticized tying the scholarships to a tax many hope to further reduce or eliminate. That’s a valid point.
We appreciate Henry’s commitment to ensuring OHLAP’s future. The governor’s plan should generate serious discussion on both sides of the aisle on the issue in the coming legislative session. But before linking the scholarships with income tax, we’d like to see lawmakers propose other permanent funding ideas.
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