College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007

COLLEGE OPPORTUNITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - February 07, 2008)

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Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I would like to express my support for H.R. 4137, the College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2007.

With each passing day, a college education becomes increasingly important for the success of our workforce while simultaneously becoming more expensive and unattainable. H.R. 4137 would address this unfortunate trend by making a quality post-secondary education more affordable and accessible for all Americans. This legislation includes a number of commendable provisions that will help to reform our higher education system so that it can better serve the needs of students and their families. It offers a comprehensive approach to reducing educational expenses and provides targeted support to groups with the greatest need.

I am particularly pleased with the efforts that have been made to increase access for low-income and minority students. The bill allows Pell grants to be made available based on a year-round enrollment schedule so that low-income and non-traditional students will have the flexibility and resources to obtain a college degree. Additional provisions in the bill will expand funding for minority-serving institutions such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities. There are also measures designed to strengthen the GEAR UP and TRIO college readiness programs so that low-income and first generation students will be adequately prepared.

If we truly wish to enable our students to achieve their full potential, we must not let them be confined by their financial limitations. I support the College Opportunity and Affordability Act so that all Americans will be able to pursue a higher education and achieve the American Dream.

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