02.29.24

Scott Statement on Cuts to the Pell Grant Program

WASHINGTON – Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03) released the following statement after Congress passed the Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024 (H.R. 7463).

“In 2020, I agreed to negotiate with former HELP Chairman Lamar Alexander on the FAFSA Simplification Act with the agreement that we would simplify the application process if it also meant that Congress would expand students’ access to the Pell Grant program. Our goal has always been to expand access to the Pell Grant program.

“The language included in the Continuing Appropriations Resolution is not in the spirit of the original intent of the FAFSA Simplification Act. It is a false choice to claim that we must choose between expanding Pell to more low-income students or preserving the long-term viability of the Pell Grant program. We can and should do both.

“Now, as a result of this legislation, next year, fewer students will have access to the Pell Grant, and many students who do receive the Pell Grant will receive less financial assistance than intended under the FAFSA Simplification Act. At a time when college has become increasingly unaffordable, we should be doing all we can to help students succeed. I am extremely disappointed in this outcome, and I will continue to fight for expanded access to the Pell Grant in the future.”

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