From the desk of Senator Joyce Waddell

Governor Roy Cooper’s Budget Plan Invests in Student Success

Joyce Waddell

CHARLOTTE, NC – On Wednesday, Governor Roy Cooper unveiled a plan to help college students facing unforeseen financial challenges complete their degrees. The $20 million Finish Line Grants Program – part of the Governor’s $60 million budget proposal – can be used to cover course materials, medical needs, housing, and other financial emergencies. The program would allocate $10 million for University of North Carolina system colleges and $5 million for private colleges.

Students at a community college within 15 hours of a degree would be eligible for $1,000 a semester; university students within 30 hours of graduation would also be eligible for $1,000 a semester.

Governor Cooper’s budget proposal would also earmark $30 million to NC Grow, a program that would provide job training in high-demand fields; $10 million would create competitive grants for businesses to allow paid internships and apprentice programs.

Legislators will return to Raleigh on May 16 for the short session. As legislators make revisions to the budget during the session, they may consider Governor Cooper’s proposal.

“Governor Cooper’s budget proposal allows students to remain focused on their educational opportunities. The allocation of funds for NC Grow is an excellent opportunity to further the progression of retaining and bringing businesses to North Carolina,” said Senator Joyce Waddell.