HB 4456 Summary

• Establishes the Michigan Reconnect Grant program administered by the Department of Talent and Economic Development to provide financial aid for eligible residents pursuing associate degrees or industry-recognized certificates/credentials at public community colleges.

• Eligibility requires applicants to be at least 25 years old, Michigan residents for at least one year, possess a high school diploma or equivalency, be enrolled at least half-time, and not have previously earned an associate or baccalaureate degree.

• Grant amount equals the cost of tuition and mandatory fees minus all other gift aid received, with funds paid directly to the eligible institution for credit to the student's account.

• Students must maintain continuous enrollment as at least half-time students, satisfy academic standing requirements, and participate in academic and career advising; eligibility expires after 4 years or upon earning an associate degree.

• Allows approved leaves of absence for medical or family hardship without disrupting continuous enrollment requirements and permits students to transfer between eligible institutions while maintaining grant eligibility.