Community colleges: California College Promise.

Assembly Member Ahrens proposes modifications to the California College Promise program that would eliminate the full-time enrollment requirement for student eligibility and establish new conditions for participating institutions. The legislation maintains the program's existing fee waiver structure while expanding access to part-time students who meet other qualifying criteria.

The bill requires participating community colleges to implement specific support mechanisms, including partnerships with local educational agencies to establish Early Commitment to College Programs and evidence-based assessment practices. Institutions must participate in the California Community College Guided Pathways Grant Program and maximize student access to need-based financial aid through existing federal and state programs. The legislation also prohibits colleges from applying the "California College Promise" designation to other financial aid initiatives.

Under the modified framework, first-time and returning community college students remain eligible for fee waivers for two academic years upon completing required financial aid applications, regardless of enrollment status. The bill preserves existing provisions for active-duty military personnel to pause and resume participation without losing benefits, while maintaining exclusions for students who have previously earned postsecondary degrees or certificates. Community colleges must submit annual reports to the Chancellor's office documenting compliance with program requirements to maintain funding eligibility.