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Assembly advances SB 323 to keep California Dream Act application available as state alternative to FAFSA
Summary
SB 323 would require the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) to remain available to all students regardless of federal aid eligibility and direct CSAC to coordinate clear, consistent financial‑aid messaging; committee passed the bill as amended to Appropriations.
Sen. Perez presented SB 323, the California Financial Aid Assurance Act. The bill would keep the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) available as a state‑level application regardless of a student's eligibility for federally based financial aid, and require the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) and institutions to coordinate consistent communications about financial‑aid options.
Why it matters: Supporters said the 2024 FAFSA rollout and federal changes created technical barriers, particularly for mixed‑status families and those whose parents lack Social Security numbers, prompting confusion and missed deadlines. Alex Zuko of the Student Aid Commission summarized the purpose: maintain CADAA as an alternative on‑ramp for students to state aid programs and ensure clear communications so families can make informed choices.
Support and testimony: The Student Aid Commission, UC Student Association, community college student leaders and many advocacy organizations supported the bill. Witnesses described CADAA as a state alternative that can reduce the risk that students avoid applying for aid because of federal form complexity or privacy concerns; the bill would not preclude FAFSA use for students who can complete it.
Committee action: The committee accepted amendments (as reflected in the analysis) to clarify technical aspects and passed SB 323 as amended to Appropriations (motion recorded). Supporters emphasized coordination between CSAC and institutions to provide clear messaging and to avoid duplicate applications.
