The TRIO Access Act allows colleges to use federal tax return information obtained for financial aid purposes to also assist students in Federal TRIO programs.
Gwen Moore
Representative
WI-4
The TRIO Access Act permits colleges to utilize federal tax return information obtained for financial aid purposes to support students participating in specific Federal TRIO programs. This act amends the Higher Education Act of 1965, allowing FAFSA data to be shared with institutions for programs under sections 402D or 402E. It mandates that institutions use FAFSA data solely for financial aid application, award, and administration, including these TRIO programs. Additionally, institutions can request tax return information to determine eligibility for programs under sections 402D or 402E if needed.
TRIO Access Act: FAFSA Data Sharing to Boost Support for Disadvantaged Students
The "TRIO Access Act" greenlights colleges to use federal tax return info—the same stuff they already get for doling out financial aid—to help students in TRIO programs. TRIO programs are specifically designed to support low-income students, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities. This bill basically cuts some red tape, so it's easier to identify and support students who could really benefit from these programs.
Making the Most of FAFSA
The bill amends the Higher Education Act of 1965. The key change? FAFSA data can now be shared with institutions, specifically for programs covered under sections 402D (Talent Search) or 402E (Educational Opportunity Centers). But, there's a catch: institutions must use this FAFSA data only for financial aid—applying, awarding, and administering it. That includes using it for the TRIO programs mentioned above. (SEC. 3)
Think of it like this: a student, Maria, is the first in her family to go to college. She's already filled out the FAFSA. Now, her college can use that same information to see if she qualifies for extra support through TRIO, like tutoring or mentoring, without Maria having to fill out a mountain of extra paperwork. The college can also request more tax info from the IRS if they can't decide Maria's eligibility for TRIO. (SEC. 3)
Keeping it Secure
Of course, with data sharing, there's always the question of privacy. The bill is pretty clear that the data can only be used for specific purposes, which should help protect students' information. The main challenge here is the same as with any system that handles sensitive data: preventing breaches and unauthorized access. Strong security measures are essential.
The Big Picture
This bill is a solid step towards making higher education more accessible. It's streamlining a process that was probably more complicated than it needed to be. By allowing data to be used more efficiently, it could make a real difference for students who need extra support to succeed in college. It builds on the existing framework of the Higher Education Act, making it easier for colleges to connect students with resources they already have.