HOUSE LAWMAKERS ARE LOOKING INTO A REPORTED COLLEGE FINANCIAL AID SCAM. 

MEMBERS DISCUSSED WAYS TO CLOSE A LOOPHOLE THAT HAS LET WEALTHY PARENTS TRANSFER GUARDIANSHIP OF THEIR CHILD SO THE STUDENT WILL LATER DECLARE THEMSELVES FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT AND QUALIFY FOR ASSISTANCE. REPRESENTATIVE CAROL AMMONS OF CHAMPAIGN CHAIRED THE HEARING.

STATE STUDENT ASSISTANCE COMMISSION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ERIC ZARNIKOW ADVISED THEY PROCEED CAUTIOUSLY.

 OTHERS CAUTIONED AGAINST CHANGES THAT WOULD MAKE IT HARDER FOR STUDENTS WHO REALLY NEED THE MONEY TO GET AID.