U.S. Representative Shomari Figures, D-Alabama, has introduced legislation that would help pay for college or job training for dependents of educators, first responders and social workers with at least 20 years of qualifying service.
The Public Service Educational Assistance Act would direct the U.S. Department of Education to cover tuition, fees and books at public colleges and universities or public training programs that lead to a recognized postsecondary credential.
To qualify, an employee would have to work full time in an eligible role for at least 20 years. The employee would also have to hold an eligible position when the law takes effect or begin qualifying service afterward. The bill defines full-time work as at least 40 hours a week.
“These public service employees perform among the most challenging and important functions in our communities, so that is why I am proud to introduce this bill that relieves the financial burden of them sending their children to college or job training programs,” Figures said.
Eligible educators would include employees of public elementary and secondary schools, public school systems, and state and local education agencies. The bill’s definition of first responders includes law enforcement officers, firefighters, 911 operators, fire dispatchers, emergency medical services personnel, certain emergency management employees, government prosecutors and public defenders, and certain Department of Energy nuclear emergency personnel.
Eligible social workers would be employees of government agencies that provide mental health or child welfare services.
Dependents could receive assistance for up to four academic years. The bill uses the federal tax code’s definition of a dependent but raises its age threshold to 26. Recipients could also receive other federal student aid, including grants and loans. The assistance would be exempt from federal income tax and would not count as wages or compensation when determining eligibility for retirement or other employment benefits.
“I’m committed to making sure that we recognize the sacrifices made by people who are the backbone of communities in Alabama and across America, and that we invest in real opportunities for their families,” Figures said.
Senator Cory Booker, D-New Jersey, and Representatives Jahana Hayes, D-Connecticut, and Mike Ezell, R-Mississippi, joined Figures in introducing the legislation. Figures’ office said the International Association of Fire Fighters, Major Cities Chiefs Association and National Association of Social Workers endorse the bill.
The bill would take effect one year after enactment.
