CONGRESSWOMAN JOHNSON CONTINUES THE EFFORT FOR CHILDREN OF FALLEN SOLDIERS
Washington, DC - (Wednesday, September 20, 2006)
Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson continues to gather cosponsors for her legislation to provide educational opportunities and access to higher education for young people who have lost a parent or guardian as a result of the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Children of Fallen Soldiers Pell Grant Act of 2006' provides financial assistance for higher education by waiving the income eligibility requirements on Pell Grant applications. By waiving this requirement, children of fallen soldiers will be able to receive a maximum Pell Grant award not to exceed the amount of their tuition.
"It is estimated that there are currently over 1,600 children who lost a parent as a result of the Iraqi War," said Congresswoman Johnson. "These young people will continue to pay the price of protecting America with the lifetime absence of a parent. For those children, this bill holds the promise of opportunity and new dreams that could make a world of difference."
Congresswoman Johnson introduced H.R. 5377, the Children of Fallen Soldiers Pell Grant Act of 2006,' along with Congressman Don Young. This bill currently has 39 bi-partisan co-sponsors.
"These brave men and women gave their lives to provide for our country," said Congresswoman Johnson. "In order to repay their honor, this legislation gives their children an opportunity to pursue educational advancement and future success."
http://www.house.gov/list/press/tx30_johnson/092006d.html