Assemblymember Mike Fong Introduces Student-Centered Bill Package

On February 23, Assemblymember Mike Fong (D – Alhambra) has introduced four bills to expand college opportunities and support student representation:

• AB 26 will exempt state taxes on up to $20,000 in student loan debt forgiven by the federal government.
• AB 1540 will streamline the process for undocumented students to access state financial aid by incorporating the nonresident tuition exemption affidavit (the “AB 540 affidavit”) into the CA Dream Act Application.
• AB 1541 will give student members of community college district boards an advisory vote.
• AB 1542 will provide a student member of the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges a grant to support the student’s ability to carry out their responsibilities.

“As the new Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee, I am proud of this package of bills that will expand college access, support students, and strengthen students’ voices and empowerment,” said Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra), Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee.

“California has led the way in providing higher education opportunities for undocumented students, but our students continue to face challenges as they navigate the financial aid system. Empowering students to apply for aid requires us to work together and create a streamlined experience.  AB 1540 helps us do just that.  We are grateful for Assemblymember Fong’s leadership in introducing this legislation and helping our California Dream Act students access financial aid in their pursuit of a college degree,” said Marlene Garcia, Executive Director, California Student Aid Commission.

“The student members of the Board of Governors provide a voice to the 1.8 million students in the California Community Colleges, as well as providing leadership both at their campus and statewide level to advocate for policies that support their fellow students and advance the Vision for Success. AB 1542 will ensure that statewide student leaders can serve on the Board of Governors and continue to be strong advocates for their fellow students. We thank Assemblymember Fong for his leadership, and look forward to working with him on this and other issues of vital concern to our students,” said Interim Chancellor Daisy Gonzales, Ph.D.

“Thank you Assemblymember Fong for championing student enfranchisement at the community colleges. The bills in this package will elevate the student voice through greater statewide board participation,” said Clemaus Tervalon, President, Student Senate for California Community Colleges.

Assemblymember Mike Fong represents the 49^th Assembly District, which includes the cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, El Monte, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena and Temple City, and the unincorporated areas of Pasadena and San Gabriel.  He serves as the Chair of the Assembly Higher Education Committee and the Assembly Vice Chair of the Asian American Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus.