North Charlotte Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Thom Tillis and his colleagues have called for an investigation into the Biden Administration's mishandling of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) program. In a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) Comptroller General Gene Dodaro, the senators expressed concern over the delays in implementing the new FAFSA system, which has had a negative impact on students and schools.

The senators highlighted the importance of the FAFSA program, stating that "almost 18 million students submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal grants, work-study, and loans." They emphasized that students rely on the FAFSA to determine their ability to afford college and plan their finances accordingly. However, due to repeated delays from the Department of Education, students and schools have been left in a state of uncertainty for the upcoming school year.

Education was three months late in launching the new FAFSA application, which was not consistently available on their website until early January. The senators pointed out that the goal of FAFSA simplification was to make the process easier for students and families. However, initial feedback from students and schools suggests that Education's outreach efforts have fallen short.

The senators called for an investigation into the Biden Administration's failure to properly implement the FAFSA program. They highlighted the importance of clear communication from Education to help students navigate the new application and for schools to make adjustments to their financial aid systems. The senators expressed concern over the lack of guidance provided by Education, which has resulted in confusion and difficulties for students and schools.

The FAFSA Simplification Act, a bipartisan legislation passed in 2020, aimed to make financial aid more accessible for all students by streamlining the application process. The legislation required Education to roll out the FAFSA program by January 1st, 2024. However, Education only made the application available for a brief period on December 30th and 31st before fully launching it on January 6th, days after the Congress-set deadline.

The delays and setbacks have had significant consequences for students and schools. High school counselors have had to postpone financial aid information sessions, and colleges have been unable to provide students with timely financial aid offers. This has left students with less time and information to compare financial aid packages and make informed decisions about their college options.

Senator Tillis and his colleagues have urged the GAO to investigate the Biden Administration's handling of the FAFSA rollout and its impact on students and schools. They believe that a thorough investigation is necessary to hold the administration accountable and to ensure that students and schools receive the support they need.

The full letter can be read HERE.

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