H.R.2733 - Pell Grant Flexibility Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2733, the Pell Grant Flexibility Act, aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. The bill focuses on modifying Federal Pell Grant requirements for students with disabilities. It ensures that these students, when taking reduced course loads deemed appropriate by their institution, receive Pell Grants calculated as if they were enrolled full-time, with a minimum of 5 credits.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase access to Pell Grant funding for students with disabilities who cannot manage a full course load. This could lead to increased enrollment and completion rates for this student population. However, the bill explicitly states that the determination of full-time status for Pell Grant calculation will not affect semester eligibility limits.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to higher education for students with disabilities.
- Reduced financial burden on students with disabilities who require reduced course loads.
- Potential for improved academic outcomes and graduation rates for this demographic.
- Encourages institutions to provide appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities.
- May lead to a more diverse and inclusive student body.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased Pell Grant expenditures, requiring additional funding allocations.
- Possible administrative burden for institutions to determine appropriate reduced course loads.
- Risk of misclassification or abuse of the provision, although limited by the ADA definition.
- The bill does not address other financial barriers to education beyond Pell Grants.
- The limited application clause could create confusion or unintended consequences.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to promote educational opportunities for a specific group of students. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to education and to appropriate funds for such purposes. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).