You and hundreds of other supporters are part of Advocates for Minnesota Student Aid (AMSA). In late May, legislators wrapped up their work at the Minnesota State Capitol. Here’s what happened and what’s next for student-focused advocacy priorities like the State Grant.

You last heard from us in early May with a request to make your voice heard by asking policymakers to make a significant, increased investment in the Minnesota State Grant program during a crucial point in the legislative session.

Thanks to you and nearly 700 fellow advocates, policymakers received over 4,200 messages asking them to increase investment in the State Grant program, which provides crucial, need-based financial aid to low- to middle-income Minnesota college students who attend all types of institutions across our state.

An additional 436 student advocates shared their State Grant stories with legislators at the Capitol during three advocacy days. The State Grant advocacy days began with a training focused on advocacy skill-building and asking legislators to support State Grant bills in the House and Senate. As a direct result of student conversations with legislators, five legislators added their names as co-authors to the House bill to demonstrate support. Together, we asked legislators to make a significant, increased investment in the State Grant program.