Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2023
Impact
The bill lays out specific objectives, including increasing annual study abroad participation to at least 1,000,000 students within ten years of enactment and ensuring that demographics reflect the broader U.S. undergraduate population. This includes a focus on low-income students, students of color, and those studying in nontraditional locations that are less common for American students. The proposed legislation emphasizes that increasing study abroad opportunities not only benefits the participants but enhances the U.S.'s capacity to engage with global challenges effectively.
Summary
House Bill 4588, known as the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2023, aims to significantly increase the number of U.S. college students participating in study abroad programs. Currently, only about 10% of students study abroad before graduating, which leaves a large percentage without critical global skills and knowledge essential for success in the global economy. The bill seeks to address this gap by establishing a structured program under the Department of State that provides funding and support for study abroad initiatives, particularly targeting underrepresented students and promoting diversity in program participation.
Contention
One notable area of contention surrounding HB4588 is the approach to funding and the prioritization of grants to higher education institutions. While supporters argue that a competitive grant system will drive innovation and increase access, critics may raise concerns about the efficacy of such programs and whether they will adequately address the needs of diverse student populations. Additionally, the impact of post-pandemic travel restrictions and budget constraints on the viability of expanded study abroad opportunities is an important consideration in discussions about the bill.
Educational Opportunity and Success Act of 2023 This bill reauthorizes through FY2029 and otherwise revises TRIO programs. (These outreach and student-services programs identify and provide services to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.) Among other revisions to the programs, the bill prohibits the Department of Education (ED) from rejecting TRIO grant applications based on certain errors; requires ED to provide additional technical assistance to interested grant applicants; revises the outcome criteria for measuring the quality and effectiveness of the programs, including those programs specifically designed for veterans; allows program administrators to use a student's most recent Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine TRIO program eligibility; and increases the maximum stipend for students participating in the Upward Bound Program or the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program.
Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2023 This bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish an Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Program. Under the program, DOE must provide financial assistance to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers pursuing a course of study that integrates cybersecurity competencies within disciplines associated with energy infrastructure needs. In addition, DOE must provide the students and researchers supported under the program with research and training experiences at its National Laboratories and utilities.
Recognizing the contributions of the Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship Program, the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program, the William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship, and the Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program to advance America's national security, development, and diplomacy efforts.