Rep. Alma Adams Expresses Concern over FAFSA Errors and Delays
Critical Rollout Errors Trouble Students and Parents
CHARLOTTE, NC - Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (D, NC-12) is seeking answers from the Department of Education over errors in the rollout of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
“Mistakes of this magnitude in a vital public service undermine public trust in government," said Rep. Adams. “The Department of Education must correct these errors and provide clarity to the families that rely on FAFSA.”
A new, ostensibly simplified FAFSA form was released on December 31st with some technical glitches, locking frustrated families out of the form, and a mistaken formula determining inaccurate aid amounts for early applicants. The delay in releasing the new form had already imperiled plans for many low-income students who rely on federal assistance to attend school. Inaccurate information, aid, and delayed applications will further burden young students.
“As an educator, my main concern remains equal and equitable access to higher education for all students who seek it. FAFSA is a key factor for families struggling to afford the cost of college, and the Department of Education must continue to reform and streamline this process to make it as accessible as possible for our students.”
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Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina's 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee.