Walberg Supports College Opportunity and Affordability Act

Statement

U.S. Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI) made the following statement after voting for the College Opportunity and Affordability Act tonight in the House.

"Parents and students know that having a post-secondary education dramatically assists individuals in finding a well paying job. In this 21st Century economy, we must prepare our students to obtain the skills of tomorrow. Unfortunately, as the demand for a college education has grown, costs have skyrocketed and institutions are not being held accountable to students, parents and taxpayers - the consumers of higher education.

"This legislation is consumer-driven and will make attending college more affordable for students of all income levels. The College Opportunity and Affordability Act holds colleges and universities accountable for excessive tuition increases, promotes transparency in college costs, and simplifies the financial aid application process to make it available earlier and easier to understand."

BACKGROUND:

H.R. 4137:
- Increases college aid and support programs for veterans and military families
- Increases access for low-income students by strengthening and reauthorizing the Pell Grant Program and Perkins Student Loan program
- Establishes a college affordability comparison known as a Higher Education Price Index to help put the cost increases into perspective.
- Calls for greater transparency and disclosure to help students and schools keep textbooks accessible and affordable.
- Requires additional disclosure between lenders and colleges to ensure students are protected and their interests come first.
- Makes the accreditation system more transparent and understandable to the public.
- As a Member of the House Education and Labor Committee worked on this bill in committee.

Source