MA H1436

Establishes free public higher education as a right for all Massachusetts residents by creating a grant program to cover tuition and mandatory fees at public colleges, universities, and vocational programs

Eligible students must have attended a Massachusetts high school for 3+ years and graduated (or earned a GED equivalent), and can enroll full-time or part-time

Students who qualify for Federal Pell Grants receive additional aid to cover room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses

Grants supplement rather than replace existing state, federal, institutional, and gift aid; Board of Higher Education must ensure the program does not affect other financial aid eligibility

Board of Higher Education required to notify all eligible students annually and maintain a database of current and potential program participants