Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act of 2013

Floor Speech

Ms. MENG. Mr. Chair, I submit an amendment to H.R. 3136, the Advancing Competency-Based Education Demonstration Project Act. My Amendment would require the Secretary of Education to report to Congress, once every ten years, the needs of limited English proficient students using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Mr. Chair, I represent a substantial number of new Americans who have worked very hard to provide for their families and make a better life for their children. These children have worked hard, made good grades, and have earned their way into college. Like most Americans, they need help affording college. FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the key form that students and their parents need to fill out to determine the federal financial aid they qualify for.

Applying for financial aid can be a difficult and confusing process for any student. When students and their families don't understand the financial obligations associated with student loans, they often waste their own money and government dollars.

This is a particular problem for newer American students and their families, who can face significant language barriers when using FAFSA. These families often end up relying on for-profit companies that charge hundreds of dollars to help translate this free application.

My amendment is an important step towards addressing the issues facing limited English proficient students. By requiring the Department of Education to report to Congress, we ensure greater transparency from the Administration on how they serve the needs of these students.

Source