Iowa lawmakers are taking action to protect farm families from potential financial hardships caused by changes to the federal student aid formula. The proposed bill would require the state's public universities to use one-year income data, rather than the proposed two-year data, when determining financial aid eligibility.
The changes to the formula, which are being considered by the federal government, could have a significant impact on rural students who come from farming families. Income for these families can vary greatly from year to year due to factors such as weather, commodity prices, and input costs, making it difficult to accurately assess their financial situation over a two-year period.
Iowa legislators are concerned that the proposed changes could make higher education even more unattainable for rural students, who already face numerous barriers to college access. By requiring the use of one-year income data, the proposed bill aims to ensure that farm families receive the financial aid they need to pursue higher education.
The bill has received bipartisan support, with legislators on both sides of the aisle recognizing the importance of protecting rural students. It is yet to be seen whether the bill will be passed into law, but it represents a positive step towards ensuring that all students have access to affordable higher education, regardless of their family's income or occupation.
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy