The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“INTRODUCTION OF THE PASSPORT ASSISTANCE FOR DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS ACT OF 2019” mentioning the U.S. Dept of State was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E850 on June 26, 2019.
The State Department is responsibly for international relations with a budget of more than $50 billion. Tenure at the State Dept. is increasingly tenuous and it's seen as an extension of the President's will, ambitions and flaws.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
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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