Maine Senate approves Sen. Daughtry bill to bolster the Maine Community College System

AUGUSTA — On Tuesday, the Maine Senate voted to pass a bill from Sen. Mattie Daughtry, D-Brunswick, that would support student success and improve graduation rates. LD 447, “An Act to Support Higher Education in Maine by Providing Funds to Maine’s Community Colleges,” would provide ongoing funding to the Maine Community College System to support students working toward completion for a credential of value.

“Maine’s community colleges are vital institutions that help prepare folks from all backgrounds for good-paying, fulfilling careers right here in Maine. But these students often face additional challenges beyond ‘traditional’ college students and need extra support to succeed. This bill makes sure community colleges have the resources they need to help all their students,” said Sen. Daughtry. “I want to thank my Senate colleagues for supporting this bill – and our community college students.”

“This bill will help students who attend Maine’s Community Colleges to finish their degrees and be prepared to enter the Maine workforce,” said Jason Judd, the Executive Director of Educate Maine, in testimony supporting the bill. “Although Maine has invested significantly in helping students enroll in community college programs, we must do more to help make sure students have the supports to persist from semester to semester and finish their degrees. These supports include high quality advising, tutoring, career guidance, and other necessary supports.”

The Maine State Chamber of Commerce also testified in support of the bill.

The bill faces additional votes in the Senate and House.

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