Federal Legislative Agenda Financial Aid

Increase Funding for Work Study Work study positions are linked to higher retention rates Allow students the opportunity to gain practical work experience Increases accountability to the campus community

Independent Student Status Currently considered dependent until age 24 with certain exceptions – (married, children, veteran, etc.) Appeals Process; financial independence is not grounds for appeal Lowering the age of independence would more accurately reflect current higher education contribution trends (Students contributing more than parents)

Pell Grant Funding Increased Funding of the Pell Grant Expand Pell Grant Funding to more readily allow for summer courses

TEACH “Scholarships” Reallocate money into a more student- friendly scholarship program – Actually grants – Many strings attached – Good program in its intent, but money may be able to go into a program that would better aid teachers

Federal Legislative Agenda Textbooks

National movement for textbook legislation- Current legislation review Timeline for MSUSA action What MSUSA could accomplish Proposed action/plan for national textbook involvement

Federal Legislative Agenda Veterans

Support Veterans In Higher Education Minnesota has the largest percentage of appointed National Guard in the nation 80% want to go to college when they return

Examples of Reforms and Changes G.I. Bill Reform – GI Bill based on continuous service not cumulative – Educational Benefits increase with inflation, not increase of costs – Deferment for school loans only 6 months when they return

Examples of Reforms and Changes Department of Veteran’s Affairs Reform – Veteran’s must apply for educational benefits. Why? Can take 16 weeks or more for reply on benefits package

Examples of Reforms and Changes Funding for Campus Assistance – There is a mandate that all campuses must provide veteran assistance centers but there is no funding.

Examples of Reforms and Changes Transfer, Information and Articulation – Make sure that our institutions are tracking veteran’s better – We want to make a push for institutions to collect veteran’s military experience so that they can be placed in the appropriate position in a major or program