The Duckworth Diary - May 3rd, 2013

Statement

Dear Neighbors of the 8th District,

This week, I had a round table discussion at the College of DuPage to talk about college affordability. Currently, the interest rate on many student loans is scheduled to double this July. Students and administrators from the College of DuPage, Harper College, Elgin Community College, Roosevelt University, and DeVry Institute shared with me how a rate increase would hurt them. I know that many of my neighbors can't afford to pay another $1,000 a year for college, so I'm cosponsoring the Student Loan Relief Act of 2013 to prevent the rate increase.

I introduced the Troop Talent Act of 2013 this week. This bipartisan bill would help Veterans find jobs at home by making it easier for service members to earn the licenses and credentials they need to transition to similar private sector positions. Our Veterans deserve every opportunity to achieve the American Dream that they fought for and our employers will benefit from the talents of those who have performed their duties under intense pressure while serving our country.

I also helped introduce a bill this week called the Manufacturing Reinvestment Account Act, which would help 8th district manufacturers invest in equipment, facilities and job training. I know that manufacturers in places like Elk Grove Village are looking to expand and compete in the global economy and this bipartisan bill will help give them the capital to do so.

Finally, I had a great meeting yesterday with several 8th district employers and state government officials to talk about the public-private partnerships they're working on that have created jobs in the district. These businesses have been successfully collaborating with the State of Illinois to recruit, train and hire the workforce they need. It was great to hear about the wonderful work they're doing!

Best,

Congresswoman Duckworth

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