In the News

January 30, 2009

Community service = financial aid?

The college tuition burden may be eased a bit if a recent bill passes. The bill, the American Opportunity Tax Credit Act of 2009 introduced earlier this month by Congressman Chaka Fattah (D.-Penn.), would allow individuals a refundable credit for higher education expenses provided the individuals perform at least 100 hours of community service for any year in which the credit is sought.

All eligible students would receive up to $4,000 in aid to cover higher education expenses (i.e., items related to the cost of attendance). The credit is not based on income or tax bracket; everyone would receive the same value.

President Barack Obama first mentioned the idea of providing financial help to college students in exchange for community service while on the presidential campaign trail. Rep. Fattah seized the opportunity to get the ball rolling after hearing the candidate speak.

The bill, which has bipartisan support, has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. Its passage would be welcome news at a time when good economic news is hard to find.

Source: Burbank Leader