Congressman Soto Files his First Bill to Assist STEM Students

Press Release

U.S. Representative Darren Soto (FL-09) introduced his first bill Tuesday, which provides financial relief to students who complete a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) field.

The ASPIRE Act (American Science Principal and Interest Reduction and Employment Act) would provide a 25% reduction in federal student loans for students who graduate with a degree in a STEM field, including loans taken out by parents.

"These are the jobs of the future and our goal is to motivate our youth to get an education and train in a career that is in high demand," said Soto. "Working to create high-paying jobs is my priority in this Congress but everything starts with a solid education."

Congressman Eric Swalwell signed onto the bill as a co-sponsor. "STEM fields are an important driver of the 21st century economy. With millions of young people and families in financial quicksand from mounting student debt, we must do what we can to relieve that weight and not deter students from pursuing degrees in fields that will progress innovation," said Swalwell. "Thanks to Congressman Soto to help support the young people who are building the future of our nation."

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), STEM jobs pay almost twice the average wages of all jobs. And BLS projects that there will be 9 million STEM jobs by 2022.

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