Senator Cortese Bill Would Create Free College for Students of West Valley-Mission Community College District

Students belonging to the West Valley-Mission Community College District would receive free tuition, books, transportation, technology, and other education-related fees under a bill introduced this week by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose).

SB 629 would allow the West Valley-Mission Community College District to tap its existing local general funds to cover all college-related expenses for the students with the greatest financial need. It would also enable the district to give financial assistance to all its students for the total cost of enrollment.

“The West Valley-Mission Community College District is committed to serving students from all walks of life — despite being in a region known for a higher cost of living,” said Senator Cortese. “SB 629 will open the doors of opportunity for hardworking students across Silicon Valley. It follows smart financial stewardship and tremendous generosity by the West Valley-Mission Community College District.”

Expenses related to community college in California can exceed $20,000 per year for students, according to the Community College Review. SB 629 would not use any state funds.

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