Community colleges would waive tuition for some public safety workers’ children

Community colleges would let eligible children attend classes without paying tuition. The waiver would cover children ages 17 through 23 whose parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian is a law enforcement officer, a correctional officer with at least 10 years of service in North Carolina, or a firefighter. Children must provide proof that they qualify and meet the college’s admission and other appropriate standards. The waiver would apply beginning with the 2026–2027 academic year if the bill becomes law. A child’s eligibility could last no longer than the number of months needed to complete the enrolled program.