HF 2654: Providing for a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for dependents of first responders

What it does

This bill provides for a waiver of resident tuition at community colleges for dependents of first responders. The bill defines first responder as a law enforcement officer, fire fighter, or emergency medical care provider. The bill requires a community college to grant a dependent of a first responder a waiver of resident tuition if the dependent meets admission requirements, enrolls in the community college and pursues studies leading to a specified degree or credential, and submits verification that the dependent’s parent or legal guardian was employed for at least six years as a first responder and is either an active first responder in Iowa or is retired at the time of the dependent’s initial application for a waiver.

House subcommittee · named February 10, 2026

• Rep. Bob Henderson (R) · robert.henderson@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Jerome Amos Jr. (D) · jerome.amosjr@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Bill Gustoff (R) · bill.gustoff@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 10 for, 0 against

For: Iowa Association of Professional Fire Chiefs; Iowa Emergency Management Association; Iowa Emergency Medical Services Association; Iowa Firefighters Association (IFA); Iowa Fraternal Order of Police; Iowa Peace Officers Association; Iowa Police Chief Association (FKA Iowa Police Executive Forum); Iowa Professional Fire Fighters; Iowa State Police Association; Iowa State Sheriffs' & Deputies' Association

In plain words

1. February 10, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Public Safety committee · as HSB 716
2. February 10, 2026House subcommittee named: Henderson, Amos Jr. and Gustoff · as HSB 716
3. February 12, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it · as HSB 716
4. February 18, 2026Approved by the House committee · as HSB 716
5. February 18, 2026Committee vote: 22–0 · as HSB 716
6. February 20, 2026Filed in the House
7. February 20, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2654 · as HSB 716