Bill > H4409

This bill aims to facilitate student financial assistance by requiring all public school districts in Massachusetts to ensure that students complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before graduating from high school. The bill provides exemptions for students whose parents or guardians sign a form authorizing them to decline submission, or for students who are 18 or older or legally emancipated. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must develop two forms: one for parents/guardians or students to opt out, which must be in accessible language and multiple languages, and another for school districts to file for students under 18. School districts must make good faith efforts to support students in submitting the FAFSA, including personalized communications. Additionally, the bill establishes a FAFSA Trust Fund to be administered by the commissioner, which can receive appropriations, gifts, and grants to support FAFSA submission, with a focus on underserved and economically disadvantaged communities. The fund can be used for staff training, developing support services, and collaborating with community organizations. The commissioner must provide annual reports on the fund's activity, including sources of funds, expenditures, and projections. The FAFSA submission requirement will take effect on October 1, 2027, while the trust fund will be established on October 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

Joint Committee on Higher Education (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4409