State policies are producing divergent enrollment and pricing outcomes: Idaho’s coordinated scholarships and retention efforts have driven multi‑year enrollment gains at public four‑year campuses, while Nevada’s Board of Regents approved a three‑year tuition increase to replace ending state bridge funds. Idaho officials credit scholarship programs and targeted go‑on initiatives for reversing demographic headwinds. Nevada faces pushback over an 8–12% tuition phase‑in that system leaders say is needed to sustain staff positions and services. Both states underscore how policy choices at the state level are now primary drivers of public university affordability and capacity.