June 26, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 108 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E850]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




INTRODUCTION OF THE PASSPORT ASSISTANCE FOR DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS ACT 
                                OF 2019

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 26, 2019

  Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce a bill 
that will hopefully be the first step in ensuring that students from 
all backgrounds are able to take advantage of study abroad programs 
offered by their universities.
  As we see a new class of students graduate, I've noticed that some of 
these students are lacking the global skills needed to excel in today's 
workplace. Exposure to the world's diverse cultures and traditions 
allows oneself to be more understanding and comfortable in a rapidly 
transforming world while also developing a greater appreciation for the 
United States and our shared culture.
  Over 80 percent of incoming freshmen hope to study abroad as a part 
of the college experience; however, due to obligations such as 
coursework, employment and affordability, only 10 percent end up taking 
advantage of this incredible opportunity offered by many universities. 
Minority students are greatly underrepresented within this population.
  The Passport Assistance for Disadvantaged Students Act of 2019 would 
establish a pilot program between the Department of Education, 
Department of State, and 3 public universities, including 1 HBCU and 1 
Hispanic Serving Institution. Students at each of these schools who 
receive Pell Grants and are accepted for a study abroad program would 
have the opportunity to receive a United States Passport at no cost. 
The public university would cover the upfront cost and the Department 
of State would reimburse the institution after they've reported 
relevant information to the Department of Education.
  With this bill, we take a step forward in breaking down systematic 
barriers that prevent certain students from studying abroad while in 
college. The opportunity to travel and learn in a foreign country 
offers students the chance to advance their studies in a globalized 
environment.
  Madam Speaker, I believe that students should have equal access to 
opportunities like study abroad regardless of race or socioeconomic 
status, which is why I am proud to introduce this bill.

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