Federal education bill would make qualifying for financial assistance easier

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U.S. Reps. Fred Keller (R-PA) and Madison Cawthorn (R-NC) introduced legislation in the House of Representatives on Oct. 28 that would allow students in short-term occupational programs to qualify for financial aid.

The bill has received the support of numerous educational programs.

The Connecting Higher Opportunities In College Education (CHOICE) Act allows students in short-term occupational programs to qualify for the federal Pell Grant program and other need-based assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. The bill outlines minimum qualifications for programs.

The goal of the act is to increase access and participation in vocational, skills-based, on-the-job, and other workforce readiness programs.

“The CHOICE Act would help get skilled workers faster into the high-in-demand positions in business and industry, also allowing short-term programs a quicker turnaround of highly skilled workers,” Alicia Davis, Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center executive director, said. “Most importantly, this bill would afford students financial help by cutting down on their overall debt load and gain a self-sustaining wage sooner.”

“America’s economy is ever-changing and we must continue to find innovative ways to meet the needs of tomorrow’s workforce,” Mike McMonigal, Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology supervisor of adult and post-secondary education, said.