WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25) introduced legislation to make higher education more accessible to students with disabilities. The Pell Grant Flexibility Act would provide increased Pell Grant flexibility to ensure students receive critical financial support while taking the recommended number of credits. 

“As co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Pell Grant Flexibility Act with Congressman Morelle,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Our bill will break down barriers to entry for disabled college students seeking financial support, and encourage these individuals to finish their degrees. As we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act this year, I will continue fighting for individuals with disabilities and their pursuit of opportunities to flourish.”

“Nearly 20 percent of undergraduate students in colleges and universities have a disability, and unfortunately, too many of these students do not go on to complete their degrees,” said Congressman Morelle. “On the 33^rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I’m proud to introduce legislation to help eliminate the roadblocks these students face and put college graduation within reach for students of all abilities. In doing so, we can help more students stay in school, graduate, and pursue meaningful employment—all while building a more inclusive and equitable higher education system.”

"As the leading professional membership association for individuals committed to equity for persons with disabilities in higher education, AHEAD has always been a champion of the Pell Grant program in helping students achieve their educational goals. But for some students with disabilities, course load requirements and semester limits with the Pell Grant program result in challenges to college completion," said Stephan Smith, Executive Director of the Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD). "That is why AHEAD is so excited to see Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY) reintroduce the Pell Grant Flexibility Act. By instituting a commonsense flexibility that would allow students with disabilities to attend college at a pace with the greatest chances for success without having to see a reduction or even loss of Pell Grant funding will make a world of difference. It is this small change that will amount to life changing opportunities for college students with disabilities."

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