• FAFSA Completion: The Chamber supports efforts to increase the number of students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) because it helps students learn about how to pay for higher education. The Chamber supports efforts to ensure a timely, reliable and accessible application process for students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA), with a release date by October 1 each year increasing accessibility to financial support for student applicants; therefore, providing students and institutions time to effectively plan for financial aid, and in turn aligning associated data reporting. Delays in FAFSA processing and inadequate communication can hinder college access, which in turn negatively impacts workforce development. Ensuring timely financial aid decisions is critical to supporting students in pursuing postsecondary education and filling workforce needs in high-demand sectors. • Pell Grants and TRIO: The Chamber supports continued availability of Pell grants to help students pay for higher education and short- term Pell grants for students seeking credentials or other nondegree education/training. We also support federally funded TRIO grants that help disadvantaged individuals prepare for and succeed in higher education. • Farm and Small Business Exemptions – The Chamber supports efforts to help students who are from families who are farmers or small business owners maximize their eligibility for federal financial support to pay for higher education. SAFEGUARDING CHILD NUTRITION The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber recognizes that federal nutrition programs play a key role in keeping children in the Oklahoma City
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