The Problem:

Iowa currently places unnecessary burdens on new residents and adult learners by requiring a prolonged waiting period to qualify for in-state tuition. For individuals who move to Iowa with the intention of building a better life, this creates a financial barrier to accessing higher education and building a skilled workforce.

Adult learners, especially those over the age of 25, often face unique challenges — including balancing work, parenting, and education. Many of them are reentering society, pursuing a second chance, or relocating for new job opportunities. Penalizing them with out-of-state tuition rates delays their educational goals and makes Iowa a less attractive destination for growth-minded individuals.

My Solution:

✅ Allow new residents who relocate for education or employment to apply for in-state tuition after 90 days of proven residence

Applies to adults aged 25+ or individuals who can show full-time employment and Iowa address

Encourages talent retention and helps address Iowa’s labor shortages

✅ Extend in-state tuition to returning Iowans and adult learners

Anyone who lived in Iowa for at least one year previously and has returned is eligible after 30 days of residence

Adult learners (25+) automatically eligible after 90 days, regardless of employment status

✅ Make community colleges and state universities align with this updated residency rule

Prevents inconsistencies between institutions

✅ Implement a verification system for residency

Utility bills, Iowa lease, employment contract, or driver’s license accepted

Stops abuse while making it accessible

Projected Cost:

Tuition revenue per student may decrease in the short term due to more qualifying for in-state rates

However, this will be offset by increased enrollment, higher retention, and economic growth from more educated, employed residents

Funding Strategy:

Use a portion of Iowa's Workforce Development Fund to subsidize tuition reimbursements to public institutions during the first 2 years of implementation

Estimate: $5 million/year needed for initial gap coverage

This is a small fraction of Iowa’s annual education budget and would reduce over time as enrollment stabilizes

How I Will Enact It:

Introduce the Fair Iowa Tuition Act in the Iowa House with bipartisan appeal

Collaborate with community colleges and university leaders to design implementation details

Mobilize adult learner testimonies to show real-world impact (e.g. Amber’s story: moved to Iowa, works full-time, can’t afford out-of-state tuition despite being a taxpayer)

Sunset clause: Include a 5-year performance review requirement to ensure effectiveness and fiscal sustainability

Impact on District 88:
This bill will make it easier for young families, returning citizens, and hardworking adults in District 88 to go back to school without being priced out. It empowers people to stay, study, and succeed in Iowa — building a stronger, smarter workforce for our future.