SB 5280 - DIGEST

     Provides that the office shall administer the state's responsibilities for federal student financial aid programs.

     Provides that the office has the following duties:  (1) To work collaboratively with organizations representing the public, students, institutions of higher education, faculty, and community scholarship groups and corporations;

     (2) to provide objective and timely information to the governor and legislature;

     (3) to be an advocate for the needs of financially needy students;

     (4) to ensure that public funds are effectively managed and that the maximum amount possible of those funds are provided directly to needy students;

     (5) to the extent feasible, streamline distribution and accountability processes to reduce the need for administrative staff;

     (6) to the extent feasible, ensure that programs follow the principle that funding follows resident students to their choice of accredited in-state career schools and colleges; and

     (7) to raise donations and matching grants from people and organizations that wish to donate to state-wide financial aid programs.

     Transfers all powers, duties, and functions of the higher education coordinating board and the office of the adjutant general of the state military department pertaining to financial assistance for students at institutions of higher education to the office of student assistance.