College Need-Based Aid Presents Opportunity to Propel More Low-Income Georgians to Middle Class

Abstract

During the 2018 legislative session, the Georgia Legislature passed House Bill 787 with a provision authorizing the Georgia Student Finance Commission to create the state’s first broad need-based aid program for university system students. Critical next steps include deciding the structure of a need-based aid program and adequately funding it. Lawmakers now have the opportunity to create a more prosperous and competitive state by helping hardworking Georgians who face financial barriers complete their degrees. This report presents policy recommendations to assist more low-income students throughout their postsecondary education.