Mel’s Law
- Sponsor
- Rep. Velázquez, Nydia M. [D-NY-7]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 15, 2025
Bottom line
Mel's Law mandates that colleges receiving federal financial aid must implement a policy to award posthumous degrees to eligible deceased students, ensuring their academic efforts are recognized without impacting institutional accreditation.
What it actually does
This bill, known as 'Mel's Law,' amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require institutions of higher education participating in federal student aid programs (Title IV) to establish a policy for awarding posthumous degrees. These degrees are to be granted to students who were enrolled in a degree program, died before completing it, and were in academic standing consistent with graduation requirements at the time of their death. Additionally, the bill mandates that accreditation agencies cannot consider the number of posthumous degrees awarded when evaluating an institution's accreditation standards.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill provides a compassionate and meaningful way to honor students who were close to achieving their academic goals but tragically passed away. It offers closure and recognition to grieving families, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of the deceased student. Proponents also highlight that the bill ensures institutions are not penalized by accreditation bodies for implementing such humane policies.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that while the intent is noble, mandating such policies could create an administrative burden for institutions, particularly smaller ones, in defining and implementing these policies. Some may also raise concerns about the potential for inconsistent application across different institutions regarding what constitutes 'academic standing consistent with the requirements for graduation,' potentially leading to perceived inequities.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2(a)
Mandate for Posthumous Degree Policies
This provision amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require that any institution of higher education participating in federal student financial assistance programs (under Title IV) must establish a policy to award posthumous degrees. These degrees are specifically for students who were enrolled in a degree program, died before completing it, and, at the time of their death, were in academic standing consistent with the institution's requirements for graduation.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this provision ensures a compassionate and consistent approach across federally funded institutions, honoring students' dedication and providing solace to their families during a difficult time. It recognizes that academic achievement is not solely defined by completion.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that while well-intentioned, this mandate could impose an additional administrative burden on institutions, requiring resources to define and manage these policies. There could also be concerns about how 'academic standing consistent with graduation requirements' is consistently interpreted.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the moral imperative to honor deceased students and support their families with the need for institutions to maintain academic standards and manage administrative responsibilities. It allows institutions flexibility in defining specific eligibility criteria.
Section 2(b)
Exclusion of Posthumous Degrees from Accreditation Criteria
This section amends the Higher Education Act to specify that the standards used by accreditation agencies for evaluating institutions cannot take into consideration the number of posthumous degrees awarded by an institution to deceased students. This ensures that institutions are not incentivized or disincentivized in their accreditation status based on how many such degrees they grant.