National Coalition Urges Congress: Stop a Pell Shortfall

A coalition of 65+ organizations is urging Congress to act immediately to address a looming funding shortfall for the federal Pell Grant program by “providing new funding that fully covers the current and projected Pell Grant shortfall for the current and upcoming fiscal years to prevent any loss in student eligibility or aid.” 

The Pell Grant program is the cornerstone of the federal financial aid system and helps more than 7 million students attend and complete college each year. Recent bipartisan program expansions have increased program costs, and by fully funding these popular expansions, Congress can reaffirm its commitment to educational opportunity, economic mobility, and a stronger American workforce. We respectfully urge Congress to fill the current shortfall immediately and strengthen long-term funding for Pell so that it remains on stable footing for years to come.