Advocate for passage of the Pell Grant Preservation & Expansion Act (or similar) that permanently doubles and indexes Pell and broadens eligibility.
Build the long-term legislative vehicle to double and index Pell and to broaden eligibility in a durable way. Recruit champions and keep the bill ready to move when the political landscape allows, including as part of a larger higher education deal. This matters because annual bumps can help, but only comprehensive legislation can prevent Pell from falling behind again.
Why this works
- Solves the issue structurally – mandatory funding and inflation indexing would secure Pell’s future.
- Also restores eligibility to Dreamers and others in one sweep.
Win Without War
AdvocacyProgressive coalition advocating for a more peaceful U.S. foreign policy
Mechanism
About LobbyingHow Win Without War uses funding
- Build a durable coalition around comprehensive Pell reform, including indexing and eligibility changes
- Develop bill text and policy memos that package changes in a coherent narrative
- Recruit champions and prepare for inclusion in larger higher education or budget deals
- Use hearings and public pressure to keep comprehensive reform on the agenda
- Coordinate across groups backing contested eligibility provisions so messaging stays disciplined
- Use incremental wins as stepping stones while keeping the comprehensive goal visible
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Draft a comprehensive bill framework
Near-termBill language and coalition priorities are aligned in a clear package
- 2
Recruit champions and endorsements
Near-termLawmakers and major organizations publicly support the comprehensive approach
- 3
Identify a viable legislative vehicle
Mid-termProvisions are positioned for inclusion in a larger deal or package
- 4
Move through negotiations and committees
Mid-termKey provisions remain intact as the package advances
- 5
Enact and implement durable reforms
Longer-termPell increases and indexing are reflected in law and guidance