ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Phoenix, Arizona
universities,
class audits; seniors
Requires the Arizona Board of Regents (Board) to conduct a feasibility study to examine methods for allowing Arizona residents who are at least 65 years of age to enroll in university courses without paying tuition and without earning academic credits, and requires the Board to submit the results of the study by December 31, 2002.
Background
The total enrollment of students age 65 years and older at the three state universities, including ASU East and West, is currently estimated at less than 150 students, according to the Board.
S.B. 1199 requires that a feasibility study be conducted to provide the State information concerning the impact of allowing persons at least 65 years of age to enroll in university coursework without paying tuition and without receiving academic credit.
The fiscal impact to the state general fund associated with this bill is unknown at this time. The Board estimates that the required study may cost approximately $5,000 and would take one month to complete.
1. Requires the Board to conduct a feasibility study to examine methods for allowing Arizona residents who are at least 65 years of age to enroll in university courses without paying tuition and without earning academic credits if all of the following occur:
a) The instructor approves the audit request.
b) There is available classroom space.
c) The university does not include the person in the student enrollment count for funding purposes.
2. Requires the Board to submit a report on the study to each of the state university presidents, the Governor and the Legislature by December 31, 2002.
3. Provides for a general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Staff
March 4, 2002