There are situations in which Pell grants can be taxed as income. Kersten asked if the Republican congressman would work to make sure Pell grants can’t be taxed.

On Tuesday, Iowa Central President Jesse Ulrich made that request in person in face-to-face meetings on Capitol Hill with Feenstra and Republican senators Joni Ernst and Charles Grassley.

He got an answer fast.

On Wednesday, Feenstra introduced a bill that would make Pell grants tax free.

“We’re very humbled and thankful that Rep. Feenstra jumped on board with tax-free Pell grants,” Ulrich said.

Kersten added “I really want to thank him and his staff for working so quickly.”

Ulrich said the quick introduction of the bill shows the benefits of the annual trip that local leaders make to Washington. D.C., to meet with members of Congress, congressional staffers and representatives of various government agencies.

Feenstra’s legislature is called the Tax-Free Pell Grants Act.

It essentially makes Pell grants compatible with the American Opportunity Tax Credit and thus exempts them from taxes even if they are used to pay for non-tuition costs such as living expenses.

“I have long supported Pell grants because they offer academic opportunities to our students and ensure that Iowans who might otherwise skip higher education because of the cost can pursue advanced studies,” Feenstra said in a written statement. “These grants are an important investment in the next generation of leaders, farmers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who support our communities and power our economy forward.”

The bill is co-sponsored by representatives Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas; Mike Kelly, R-Pennsylvania, and Danny Davis, D-Illinois.

It awaits assignment to a House committee.