Hirono co-introduces bill to double Pell Grant

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, has joined several other democratic lawmakers introducing a bill that aims to make college more affordable.

Read more Kauai County to test emergency alert system

would nearly double the maximum Pell Grant award to $15,000 over six years, index the maximum award for inflation, and expand qualifications to more students including DREAMers. The bicameral legislation would also protect the program from budget shortfalls and eligibility changes.

Read more Convicted murderer from Hawaii faces death penalty

“For thousands of students in Hawaii and millions of students across the country, Pell Grants have helped to make higher education more affordable. But as costs continue to rise, it is becoming increasingly more difficult for students to pursue the college and career opportunities that will allow them to succeed in the future,” Senator Hirono said in a statement. “By increasing the Pell Grant maximum award, indexing the maximum award for inflation, and protecting the program from future cuts, this legislation will allow students across the country to reach their full potential.”

Read more Dole celebrates 125 years by giving free pineapples to blood donors across Oʻahu

The federal Pell Grant program currently serves 7 million students nationwide.