The idea of free college for all, while nothing new, has been derided as a liberal pipe dream, especially during the last election when it was one of the centerpieces of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders' failed campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination.
But the fact is there are a number of city and state programs across the country giving students a shot at a debt-free community college education.
Including, now, Arkansas. But with a twist.
Earlier this month, Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed legislation creating the Arkansas Future Grant, or ArFuture, program. ArFuture offers grants to make up costs not covered by federal and other state aid for study at a community or technical college. There is no high school grade point average requirement and funds are available for adults as well as recent high school grads. The money will start flowing come the fall semester.
There is a catch, though.
While most such programs allow any course of study, ArFuture requires students to study science, technology, engineering, math or another field that the state determines is in high demand.
Students must "earn" their way through community service and work in the state for three years after graduation. If they fail to comply with the conditions, then they have to pay the money back.
We suspect some will see the conditions as too restrictive. We can hear it now: Why should the state dictate what a student should study?
Well, because the state is footing the tab. And prospective students have the option of taking the money and following through or pursuing some other field and finding the money on their own.
But there is a bigger reason. This is considered an economic development program for Arkansas. And the state wants a return on investment. Graduating students ready to take available jobs in high-demand fields, and who stay in the Natural State, is good for them, good for Arkansas.
Besides, it might just teach a few folks that there is no such thing as a free lunch.
In our view, the program is a winner for the state and its people.