H.F. 1195 Summary

• Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, high school students must complete and submit the FAFSA or state financial aid application to graduate, or file a signed waiver indicating informed refusal to apply.

• High school principals or counselors may waive the requirement if the student faces extenuating circumstances (including immigration-related issues), has met all other graduation requirements, and the school made a good faith effort to assist.

• High school counselors must encourage and assist high school seniors in completing and submitting the FAFSA or state financial aid application.

• The Department of Education and Office of Higher Education must establish a working group with stakeholders serving low-income students, minorities, nonnative English speakers, unaccompanied youth, homeless students, and those in foster care to develop resources, training, and outreach materials.

• $500,000 is appropriated in fiscal year 2024 for FAFSA outreach efforts: $300,000 for the Office of Higher Education to conduct secondary school outreach, and $200,000 for grants to nonprofit organizations assisting students and families with completing applications.