MA S929

Declares free public higher education a right for all Massachusetts residents as state policy

Creates a grant program through the Board of Higher Education to cover tuition and mandatory fees at any Massachusetts public college, university, or vocational/certificate program

Pell Grant-eligible students receive additional aid for full cost of attendance, including room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses

Eligible students include full-time or part-time enrollees who attended Massachusetts high school for 3+ years and graduated (or obtained GED equivalent), with no restrictions on academic program choice

Grants supplement rather than replace existing state, federal, institutional, or gift aid; the Board must maintain an eligibility database and provide annual notices to eligible students