Washington, D.C. — On May 14, long time bill sponsors, U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act (S. 4541). Companion legislation was also reintroduced in the House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) (H.R. 8834). The bill, a top policy priority for NAFSA, would codify the State Department’s IDEAS program which provides grant funding for study abroad programs at U.S. colleges and universities and rename it for the late Senator Paul Simon. As Senator Durbin said in a press release: “This legislation builds on Senator Simon’s vision by creating opportunities for American students of all backgrounds to see and experience the world. By giving the next generation of students the chance to study abroad, they will be better prepared to lead successful lives and expand their worldview.” The following is a quote from Fanta Aw, executive director and CEO of NAFSA:
“The Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act strengthens one of the nation’s most important investments in globally prepared talent. By codifying and expanding the IDEAS program into law, this legislation will open doors for more students across institution types, to access transformative study abroad experiences that build the skills, knowledge adaptability, and intercultural competencies demanded in today’s global economy. Expanding global learning is not a luxury; it is a national imperative. We applaud the bill’s sponsors for their leadership in strengthening U.S. competitiveness, advancing economic and national security interests, and preparing the next generation of globally engaged leaders.”
About NAFSA: Association of International Educators
NAFSA: Association of International Educators is the world's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit association dedicated to international education and exchange. NAFSA promotes policies that ensure the continued growth and impact of global learning, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding through study abroad, international student services, and campus internationalization. With a network of over 10,000 professionals in the field at more than 3,500 institutions in 150+ countries, NAFSA is committed to fostering a more globally connected and peaceful world.