In high schools, providing for Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
The implementation of SB310 will significantly impact state education laws by introducing a statewide requirement for FAFSA filing across both public and nonpublic schools. By ensuring that every high school student is aware of and has access to federal educational funding opportunities, the bill may increase financial assistance uptake. However, it also raises questions about the adequateness of infrastructure in schools to support such a mandate, especially regarding counseling and information dissemination.
Senate Bill 310, introduced in 2025, aims to amend the Public School Code of 1949 by requiring students in high school across Pennsylvania to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) prior to graduation. The bill mandates that every student applies for federal financial aid unless they opt out by submitting a designated opt-out form. This is seen as a measure to encourage more students to access available financial aid resources, which may improve college enrollment rates and alleviate the financial burden on families.
Overall sentiment around SB310 appears to be favorable among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards increasing college affordability and accessibility for all students. Advocates argue that the requirement will lead to higher FAFSA completion rates and that it reflects a commitment to supporting higher education. Conversely, some critics express concerns about imposing additional requirements on students and potentially overstepping parental authority regarding financial decisions.
Notable points of contention include the debate over the opt-out provision, which some argue does not sufficiently address all scenarios where families may wish to decline participation. Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding privacy and the handling of personal financial information that schools may inadvertently collect during the FAFSA process. Supporters of the bill may need to provide robust assurances and frameworks to address these concerns to ensure the bill's successful implementation.