It’s taken several years and a winding path, but Indiana is now on track to formally urge high school seniors to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Senate Bill 82 (FAFSA), authored by Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg), passed the full House this week with strong bipartisan support with an 89-5 vote. The Senate subsequently concurred with a 45-1 vote on the House-amended version of the bill, which included compromise language developed by House Education Committee Chairman Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) in consultation with the Indiana Chamber.
The passed version includes enhanced parent/student notification requirements and an online affirmation form that empowers families to confirm that they received the notification, indicate whether they intend to complete the FAFSA and request direct FAFSA assistance from state and local partners if taking advantage of FAFSA.
This Chamber policy priority will put more students – particularly those from low- and middle-income families – on the path to post-high school education and training aligned with Indiana’s workforce needs and upward economic mobility.
At this point, SB 82 seems to be on a smooth path to reaching the Governor’s desk and becoming law.
Resource: Jason Bearce at (317) 264-6880 or email: jbearce@indianachamber.com
