VA HJR27

Directs the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to study options for improving higher education affordability in Virginia, with findings due by November 30, 2026, and a report to be submitted by the start of the 2027 legislative session

Requires evaluation of federal funding losses and loan cap impacts on public institutions, including potential increases in students seeking higher-interest private loans and reduced access to baccalaureate/graduate degrees

Mandates analysis of cost-reduction measures including enrollment/staffing ratio evaluations, caps on athletic fees passed to students, tuition freezes, increased transfer student grants, and housing/meal assistance options

Requires JLARC to estimate costs for providing free in-state tuition to Virginia residents, phased in starting with low-income students in 2036-2037 and expanding to all in-state students by 2046-2047

Notes current costs include $5,049 average attendance at community colleges and $29,538 at baccalaureate institutions for 2025-2026, with the state currently covering only 58% of educational costs versus the 67% cost-share policy target