However, he said he understand SHEFA’s decision because the funding source — poker licensing fees — has been shrinking.
“It’s a belt-tightening measure,” he said, referring to the SHEFA board’s decision.
He admitted that the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation cannot identify a new funding source to help SHEFA.
Dela Cruz, R-Saipan, is confident though that the students will understand the economic situation of the island.
He urged the students to make necessary adjustments.
“I know they are mature enough to understand the situation,” he added.
The reduction of the funding level for SHEFA recipients will take effect this spring.
As of Jan. 5, according to SHEFA Administrator Henry Hofschneider, they had received 565 applications for financial assistance.
There are 93 new applicants who want to study in the CNMI while 266 are “ongoing” recipients.
Hofschneider said 25 new applications and four ongoing recipients are now ready for review.
There are 209 applicants for off-island schools: 23 are new and 186 are ongoing recipients, he added.
For those studying off-island, he said SHEFA is now ready to review six new applications and 72 ongoing recipients.
