A bill designed to encourage the pursuit of higher education in Pennsylvania could help families prepare for their children's college careers if the state Senate approves the proposal in April.

The Tuition Account Program jumped its first hurdle in the Senate earlier this month with a unanimous endorsement by a subcommittee. But the Senate decided to defer its final vote until next month because, while the Democratic caucus supports TAP, it wants more discussion time. Gov. Robert P. Casey has agreed to work with the bill's sponsor to work out all concerns.

Under the program, proposed by Sen. Robert Jubelirer, R-Blair, parents would place money in a tax-exempt account and later apply both the principal and interest it earns toward a college tuition. State-owned and state-related schools would be required to participate, but the program would be voluntary for other institutions.

If the investments did not accumulate sufficient funds when the child reached college age, a general fund budget operated by the state would cover the difference for state-owned and state-related institutions. A separate reserve fund would be created to cover shortfalls for other schools.

Under the plan then, a family that invests in a year's tuition at current rates will have purchased tuition for an equivalent time period in the future, regardless of cost hikes. Parents essentially can buy tuition at today's prices for tomorrow's use.

While the bill will not affect current students, its benefits could help siblings and other future students. Pennsylvania schools would have another alternative to existing financial aid programs, such as student loans and scholarships.

Michigan and Florida, among other states, already have implemented programs similar to Sen. Jubelirer's proposal. Pennsylvania, which currently ranks 47th in the nation for funding per full time student, needs to follow suit.

Potential Penn State students especially could profit, as this institution receives less funding per student than any other state-related university in the commonwealth.

While postponement of a vote on such a useful bill is unfortunate, public officials may need the extra time to learn about the bill's ramifications. Students can take advantage of this time by writing to their representatives to voice their support of the bill.

The plan appears to be a feasible alternative to existing financial aid programs. A concerned public and future parents need to support the proposal now to assure affordable education tomorrow.