Five of Iowa’s community colleges would be able to offer a limited number of four-year degrees if a bill that cleared the Iowa House last (Wednesday) night becomes law. Representative Taylor Collins, a Republican from Mediapolis, says it’s a pilot project that would address workforce gaps.
“Many of these high-demand careers lack adequate, affordable bachelor’s level pathways in every part of the state, especially in rural Iowa,” Collins said. “…This bill moves the needle for household income and helps Iowans reaching for new opportunities.”
Among the five are Southeastern Community College in Burlington. It would offer no more than three bachelor’s level programs — and those programs would have to be offered at the community college’s main campus. The bill passed on a 56-to-36 vote — but that tally was not along party lines. Sixteen of those who voted no were Republicans. Eight Democrats who voted for it.
