Please join me in co-sponsoring legislation that would ensure more young people file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) to better understand their higher education funding options.  

Currently, students pursuing post-secondary education have the option to complete and file a FAFSA in order to be considered for federal, state and school financial aid programs. This includes grants, scholarships, loans and work-study programs designed to help students pay for higher education.  

My legislation will require high school seniors to complete the FAFSA or opt out on a form provided to parents or guardians. 

In many cases, our students are missing opportunities for higher education because they are unaware of financial assistance and resources that might be available to them. Numerous studies have shown that students who complete the FAFSA are significantly more likely to continue their studies after high school. Our students should graduate high school with all the available tools and resources needed to pursue higher education.

With the passage of Act 89 of 2024, known as Grow PA, it remains critical that we continue to find ways to address the needs of our workforce across our Commonwealth; we need skilled workers in a wide array of fields. Creating a universal FAFSA requirement will ensure all students understand the type of aid that is available to them so they can make an informed decision about their education and career training options. 

During the 2023-2024 Session, this legislation was introduced as Senate Bill 750 and approved by the full Senate by a vote of 46-4 on June 28, 2023, but was not considered by the House Education Committee prior to the end of Session. Co-sponsors of the bill included Senators Argall, Aument, Bartolotta, Boscola, Brewster, Culver, Fontana, Miller and Santarsiero. 

Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation.