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Click here for information on this issue in the 107th Congress Click HERE to Visit the NEW College Cost Central Web Page! A Resource for Parents, Students, & Taxpayers Fed Up With the High Cost of Higher Education On May 5, 2004, H.R. 4283, the College Access and Opportunity Act was introduced in the House. See: Text of Bill (pdf) | Bill Summary (pdf) H.R. 5186, the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Reps. John Boehner (R-OH) and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) H.R. 5185, the Higher Education Extension Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Reps. John Boehner (R-OH) and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Reps. John Boehner (R-OH) and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) H.R. 3894, the Pell Grants Plus Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Reps. Max Burns (R-GA) and Ric Keller (R-FL) H.R. 3311, the Affordability in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) H.R. 3077, the International Studies in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) H.R. 3076, the Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) H.R. 3039, the Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) H.R. 2956, the Financial Aid Simplification Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) H.R. 2211, the Ready to Teach Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-GA) H.R. 438, the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) H.R. 12, the FED UP Project -- Bill Summary Introduced by Rep. Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) HIGHER EDUCATIONAccess, Affordability, Accountability, Fairness In July 2003, Education & the Workforce Committee Chairman John Boehner (R-OH) and 21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) outlined four principles for strengthening the Higher Education Act: (1) Realigning student aid programs to ensure fairness for America's neediest students and families; (2) Improving quality and innovation by empowering consumers; (3) Removing barriers for non-traditional students; and (4) Holding colleges accountable for cost increases without overburdensome federal intrusion. These principles will continue to guide reauthorization efforts aimed at expanding college access for low and middle income students. Having passed legislation last year in the House to strengthen teacher colleges through increased accountability, expand loan forgiveness for teachers and reading specialists in high-poverty schools, revamp international education programs to meet the realities of the post-9/11 era, and renew graduate education programs, the House Education and the Workforce committee is entering the latest and final phase of the Higher Education Act (HEA) reauthorization process. Republicans believe the number one priority for reauthorization of the Higher Education Act is the need to expand access for current and future low and middle income students striving for a higher education. On May 5, 2004, Education & the Workforce Committee Chairman John Boehner (R-OH) and 21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) introduced the College Access & Opportunity Act, legislation that includes comprehensive reforms to expand college access for low and middle-income students. The College Access & Opportunity Act places students first, with reforms designed to strengthen Pell Grants and student aid while reducing red tape and eliminating outdated barriers to college access. The bill will strengthen Minority Serving Institutions, and ensure all eligible colleges and universities are able to compete on a level playing field for funds that will allow them to better serve their students. The legislation also includes a number of important reforms to the multi-billion dollar federal student loan programs; reforms that taken together will expand access for current and future students by increasing loan limits, reducing loan fees, repealing anti-consumer restrictions for borrowers seeking to consolidate their loans, and ensuring all federal student loans are provided under the current, successful variable rate structure that has resulted in the lowest interest rates in the history of the these programs. A summary of the College Access & Opportunity Act can be viewed here. Issue Summary: Higher Education: GOP Principles for Reform
Click here for information on this issue in the 107th Congress
Click HERE to Visit the NEW College Cost Central Web Page!
A Resource for Parents, Students, & Taxpayers Fed Up With the High Cost of Higher Education
On May 5, 2004, H.R. 4283, the College Access and Opportunity Act was introduced in the House. See: Text of Bill (pdf) | Bill Summary (pdf)
H.R. 5186, the Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Reps. John Boehner (R-OH) and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA)
H.R. 5185, the Higher Education Extension Act -- Bill Summary
H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act -- Bill Summary
H.R. 3894, the Pell Grants Plus Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Reps. Max Burns (R-GA) and Ric Keller (R-FL)
H.R. 3311, the Affordability in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Rep. Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA)
H.R. 3077, the International Studies in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI)
H.R. 3076, the Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary
H.R. 3039, the Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK)
H.R. 2956, the Financial Aid Simplification Act -- Bill Summary
H.R. 2211, the Ready to Teach Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-GA)
H.R. 438, the Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act -- Bill Summary
Introduced by Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC)
H.R. 12, the FED UP Project -- Bill Summary
HIGHER EDUCATION
Access, Affordability, Accountability, Fairness
In July 2003, Education & the Workforce Committee Chairman John Boehner (R-OH) and 21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) outlined four principles for strengthening the Higher Education Act: (1) Realigning student aid programs to ensure fairness for America's neediest students and families; (2) Improving quality and innovation by empowering consumers; (3) Removing barriers for non-traditional students; and (4) Holding colleges accountable for cost increases without overburdensome federal intrusion. These principles will continue to guide reauthorization efforts aimed at expanding college access for low and middle income students.
Having passed legislation last year in the House to strengthen teacher colleges through increased accountability, expand loan forgiveness for teachers and reading specialists in high-poverty schools, revamp international education programs to meet the realities of the post-9/11 era, and renew graduate education programs, the House Education and the Workforce committee is entering the latest and final phase of the Higher Education Act (HEA) reauthorization process.
Republicans believe the number one priority for reauthorization of the Higher Education Act is the need to expand access for current and future low and middle income students striving for a higher education. On May 5, 2004, Education & the Workforce Committee Chairman John Boehner (R-OH) and 21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) introduced the College Access & Opportunity Act, legislation that includes comprehensive reforms to expand college access for low and middle-income students.
The College Access & Opportunity Act places students first, with reforms designed to strengthen Pell Grants and student aid while reducing red tape and eliminating outdated barriers to college access. The bill will strengthen Minority Serving Institutions, and ensure all eligible colleges and universities are able to compete on a level playing field for funds that will allow them to better serve their students.
The legislation also includes a number of important reforms to the multi-billion dollar federal student loan programs; reforms that taken together will expand access for current and future students by increasing loan limits, reducing loan fees, repealing anti-consumer restrictions for borrowers seeking to consolidate their loans, and ensuring all federal student loans are provided under the current, successful variable rate structure that has resulted in the lowest interest rates in the history of the these programs. A summary of the College Access & Opportunity Act can be viewed here.
Issue Summary: Higher Education: GOP Principles for Reform
The College Cost Crisis: A Congressional Analysis of College Costs and Implications for America's Higher Education SystemClick here to read the new report! Press Statements: Memo to Editorial Writers: The Truth About Pell Grants - November 24, 2004 Boehner Calls on Education Department to Halt Use of 17-Year Old Data in Determining Students’ Pell Grant Eligibility; Use of Outdated Data May Shortchange Neediest Students and Deepen Pell Budget Shortfall, Chairman Warns - November 22, 2004 President Signs GOP Bill to Support Teachers & Needy Schools, Cut Off Excess Subsidies to Loan Providers - November 1, 2004 New Reports Support GOP Case for Further Reforms in Student Financial Aid - October 13, 2004 House Passes GOP Bill to Shut Down Excess Taxpayer Subsidies for Loan Providers, Use Money to Help Teachers and Poor Schools - October 7, 2004 Republican Bill Does Not Leave “40 Percent” of Excess 9.5% Subsidies Intact; Any Subsidy Cuts Beyond Those Made in GOP Bill Will Hurt Non-Profit Student Aid Providers - October 6, 2004 Gregg-Boehner Proposal Would Cut Off Excess Subsidies to Loan Providers, Use Money to Support Teachers & Poor Schools - September 30, 2004 Taxpayers Still Vulnerable to Diploma Mills Despite Current Safeguards, Witnesses Tell Congress - September 23, 2004 ATTACK OF THE CLONES: Democrats to Introduce Bill Copying GOP Plan to Permanently End Excess Subsidies to Student Lenders; GAO Confirms Need to End Subsidies, as President Proposed Seven Months Ago - September 21, 2004 Education Committee Announces Hearing on the Cost of College Textbooks - July 16, 2004 Witnesses Urge Congress to Address Higher Education Graduation Gap, Provide Students & Parents More Information to Hold Institutions Accountable - July 13, 2004 New Report Shows States Have Not Cut Higher Education Spending; Republicans Again Challenge Democrats & College Lobbyists to Justify Hyperinflation in Tuition Costs - July 9, 2004 Witnesses Urge Congress to Reform Accreditation Process to Help Students & Parents Hold Colleges Accountable for Quality - June 22, 2004 Current Higher Education Law Unfair to Proprietary Schools & Students, Must be Reformed, Witnesses Tell Congress - June 16, 2004 House Education Committee Leaders Express Concern Over Achievement Gap in College Graduation Rates; Ask Higher Education Lobbying Groups to Address Disturbing Report by Education Trust - June 15, 2004 Republican College Access Bill Will Help Millions of Low and Middle-Income Students Achieve Higher Education, Witnesses Tell Panel - May 12, 2004 New CRS Report Shows Variable Rate Consolidation Loans Are Less Expensive for Borrowers than Fixed Rate Loans - May 12, 2004 Democrat Leaders Jump the Gun, Botch the Facts on GOP Student Aid Bill; Republican Bill Eliminates Excess Subsidies for Banks & Lenders - May 5, 2004 House GOP Education Leaders Unveil Bill to Expand College Access for Low & Middle-Income Students - May 5, 2004 Americans Believe Current & Future Students – Not College Graduates – Should Be First Priority in Federal Higher Education Aid, Congressional Survey Shows - April 21, 2004 Democrat Expansion of Consolidation Loan Program Could Take Resources Away from Students Striving for College, Witnesses Warn Congress - March 17, 2004 House GOP Education Committee Members Praise Armed Services Committee for Passage of Bill Ensuring Equal Access for Military Recruiters - March 17, 2004 Boehner Backs Bill to Ensure Equal Access for Military Recruiters at U.S. Colleges and Universities; Proposal Reinforces Homeland Security Act - March 16, 2004 Greenspan: Raising Education Standards, Training Workers Key to Creating American Jobs - March 11, 2004 Burns to Introduce Bill to Expand Pell Grants for Needy, High-Achieving Students - March 4, 2004 Boehner Calls on Democrats to Withdraw Higher Education Bill that Would Cut Education Funding for States; Urges Democrats to Back McKeon Proposal for Greater Sunshine and Transparency in College Costs - March 3, 2004 House Republicans Praise Universities for Taking Voluntary Steps to Address College Cost Crisis - February 9, 2004 House Republicans Introduce Bill to Protect Disadvantaged Students & Taxpayers Against Pell Grant Fraud - November 25, 2003 Hoekstra Bill to Strengthen International Studies Programs, Address National Security Concerns Passes House - October 21, 2003 House Overwhelmingly Approves Hoekstra Higher Education Bill to Strengthen Graduate Education, Build On Efforts to Train Highly-Qualified K-12 Teachers - October 21, 2003 Boehner: New College Board Report Confirms Tuition Crisis, But Lets Institutions Off the Hook - October 21, 2003 McKeon Offers Bill to Address College Cost Crisis by Empowering Parents and Students, Holding Institutions Accountable for Costs - October 16, 2003 GOP Education Leaders Unveil “College Cost Central” Website to Seek Input from Parents & Students - October 15, 2003 Witnesses Testify Before Subcommittee on Contributions of Hispanic Serving Institutions in Higher Education - October 7, 2003 Higher Education Stakeholders Join McKeon for Roundtable Discussion on College Cost Crisis - October 2, 2003 International Studies in Higher Education Bill Ready for House Consideration - September 25, 2003 Graduate Opportunities Act Approved by Education Committee to Strengthen Higher Education, Boost Highly Qualified K-12 Teachers - September 25, 2003 Colleges Can Do More to Hold Down Costs, Witnesses Tell Congress - September 23, 2003 Hoekstra Bill Approved to Strengthen Graduate Education, Help Train Highly Qualified Teachers at All Levels of Education - September 17, 2003 Education Subcommittee Approves Hoekstra Measure to Strengthen International Studies in Higher Education, Ensure Programs Fulfill National Security Needs - September 17, 2003 Graduate Opportunities Act Offered to Strengthen Graduate Programs, Build on K-12 Education Reform - September 15, 2003 Hoekstra Bill Offered to Strengthen International Studies in Higher Education, Fulfill National Security Needs - September 15, 2003 Cole Bill Will Expand Opportunities in Higher Education, Increase Access for Students, Witnesses Testify - September 11, 2003 Cole, House Republicans Introduce Bill to Expand Opportunities in Higher Education & Boost Minority Serving Institutions - September 9, 2003 Graduate Programs Provide a Valuable National Resource, Improve Education at All Levels, say Witnesses - September 9, 2003 House GOP Education Committee Leaders Release Report on College Cost Crisis - September 4, 2003 President Signs Kline Bill to Provide Student Loan Relief to Troops - August 19, 2003 Setting the Record Straight on Pell Grants - August 9, 2003 Boehner, Kline Commend Senate Passage of Bill to Ease Financial Burdens on Troops: HEROES Now Awaits President’s Signature - August 4, 2003 McKeon, Emanuel Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase College Access, Streamline Financial Aid Formula - July 25, 2003 Loan Consolidation Has Mixed Impact on Higher Education, Witnesses Tell House Subcommittee - July 22, 2003 House GOP Education Leaders Declare Cost Crisis in Higher Education; Announce Principles for Reform - July 22, 2003 Subcommittee Hears Testimony on Expanding Access to College for Needy Students - July 15, 2003 Witnesses Testify on Potential Solutions to Affordability Crisis in Higher Education - July 10, 2003 House Approves Bills to Help States & Schools Put a Qualified Teacher in Every Classroom - July 9, 2003 Witnesses Debate Questions of Bias in International Studies Programs - June 19, 2003 Bills to Support Teachers, Improve Teacher Training Programs Ready for House Consideration - June 10, 2003 Subcommittee Approves Bills to Strengthen Teacher Training Programs, Increase Loan Forgiveness - June 4, 2003 Gingrey, House Education Committee Members Offer Bill to Strengthen Teacher Training Programs, Improve Teacher Quality - May 22, 2003 Committee Leaders Launch Effort to Ensure Accountability & Quality in U.S. Higher Education - May 13, 2003 House Republicans Mark Teacher Appreciation Week - May 7, 2003 House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Provide Student Loan Relief for U.S. Troops - April 1, 2003 Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Waive Student Loan Obligations for U.S. Troops - March 25, 2003 President Bush’s FY 2004 Education Budget “Spends More, and Spends It More Wisely,” Boehner Says - February 3, 2003 Boehner Praises Ohio Governor Taft for Emphasizing Quality & Results in Higher Education - January 13, 2003 McKeon Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Reduce Red Tape, Improve Access to Higher Education - January 7, 2003 Dear Colleague Letters: Non-Profit Student Aid Providers Oppose Retroactive Cuts that would Jeopardize Student Loan Benefits - October 6, 2004 Expand Student Loan Relief for Teachers by Ending Excess Loan Provider Profits - October 6, 2004 Democrat Student Lending Amendment is the Wrong Way to do the Right Thing - September 9, 2004 Fuzzy Math and False Expectations: Hidden Costs and the Direct Student Loan Program - July 23, 2004 Help Students & Parents Make More Informed Choices with their College Dollars; Cosponsor the College Access & Opportunity Act - July 21, 2004 Let the Market Decide; Dissatisfied Schools Should Not be Pressured to Participate in the Direct Student Loan Program - July 20, 2004 Hidden Costs and the Direct Student Loan Program – Americans Deserve the Facts Before Congress Asks Them to Pay Even More - July 9, 2004 Strengthen Pell Grants for American Students; Cosponsor the College Access & Opportunity Act - July 7, 2004 Expand College Access for Low and Middle-Income Students - June 22, 2004 Americans Deserve Facts on Direct Student Loan Program’s Hidden Costs – Before Congress Asks Them to Pay Even More - May 20, 2004 Common Sense on Student Loans - May 7, 2004 The College Access & Opportunity Act; Expanding College Access for Low and Middle-Income Students - May 6, 2004 Ensure Current and Future Students are Priority Number One in Federal Higher Education Aid - May 5, 2004 Outdated “90-10” Higher Education Rule Reduces College Access for Poor & Minority Students – and Must Be Eliminated - April 30, 2004 Don’t Let Interest Rates Double on Student Loans - April 28, 2004 Access for Low & Middle-Income Students Should Be First Priority in Higher Education Subsidies - April 27, 2004 Put College Access for Low and Middle Income Students First - April 27, 2004 Fixed-Rate Consolidation Loans Will Cost Low & Middle Income Students $21 Billion Over Seven Years - April 19, 2004 Protect America by Protecting Equal Campus Access for Military Recruiters - March 29, 2004 Runaway Mandatory Spending May Threaten College Access for Low & Middle Income Students - March 22, 2004 Want to Create Good Jobs for U.S. Workers? Reform America's Education System - March 10, 2004 $10,636: Affordable for Whom? - October 29, 2003 Co-Sponsor Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Success of International Studies Programs in the Post 9-11 Era - October 8, 2003 College Access vs. College Excess: Extravagant Spending at Higher Learning Institutions Drives Up Tuition Costs, NY Times Reveals - October 7, 2003 Don't Fall for the Partisan Pell Grant Fraud - October 2, 2003 Wall Street Journal on Democrat Claims of Pell Grant ‘cuts’: “The numbers tell a different story” - September 17, 2003 International Studies Programs Help Fulfill National Security Needs - September 9, 2003 Graduate Opportunities Act: Strengthening Education at Every Level - September 9, 2003 Cleveland Plain Dealer Calls on Senate to Join House in Improving Teacher Training Programs - August 13, 2003 Houston Chronicle: “Higher Education is at a Crisis Point” - July 29, 2003 Help Recruit and Retain Highly Qualified Teachers in High Need Areas - June 20, 2003 Higher Education: What are Parents, Students, and Taxpayers Getting for Their Money? - June 12, 2003 Historically Black Colleges and Universities: A Source of Great Pride for Our Entire Nation -- February 11, 2003 Fact Sheets: Democrat Plan for Pell Grants Would Shortchange Neediest Students, Deepen Pell Grant Budget Shortfall - November 22, 2004 Non-Profit Student Aid Organizations Oppose Retroactive Cuts in 9.5% Student Loan Subsidies - UPDATED: October 6, 2004 How Republicans Would Permanently End Excess Taxpayer Subsidies for Student Loan Providers - October 5, 2004 Gregg-Boehner Plan Would Address Teacher Shortage in Struggling Schools - September 30, 2004 Democrats Stalled Legislation for Months Shutting Down Excess Subsidies to Student Loan Providers - September 30, 2004 House GOP Higher Education Bills Boost Minority Serving Institutions, Build on Dramatic Funding Increases - UPDATED: July 22, 2004 Democrat Obstruction is Keeping Americans Out of Work - June 2004 They Were for It, Before They Were Against It - Democrat Leaders' Shifting Stance on Variable-Rate Consolidation Loans - May 2004 Higher Education in Crisis: How Congressional Republicans are Working to Keep the Dream of a College Education Within Reach - March 2004 Higher Education: GOP Principles for Reform - February 2004 The College Cost Crisis - January 2004 Title VI Advisory Board Proposal Reflects Increased Importance of National Security Concerns in International Studies - September 25, 2003 Strong & Diverse Support for House Republican Efforts to Remove Higher Education Barriers for Students, Boost Minority-Serving Institutions - September 23, 2003 House GOP Higher Education Bills Boost Minority Serving Institutions, Build on Dramatic Funding Increases - September 16, 2003 Bill Summaries: H.R. 5186, The Taxpayer-Teacher Protection Act H.R. 5185, The Higher Education Extension Act H.R. 4283, The College Access & Opportunity Act H.R. 3894, The Pell Grants Plus Act H.R. 3311, The Affordability in Higher Education Act H.R. 3077, The International Studies in Higher Education Act H.R. 3076, The Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act H.R. 3039, The Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act H.R. 2956, The Financial Aid Simplification Act H.R. 2211, The Ready to Teach Act H.R. 438, The Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act H.R. 12, The FED UP Project: Removing Barriers to Higher Education by Reducing Federal Red Tape for Colleges Reports and Other Resources: "As Federal Costs of Loan Consolidation Rise, Other Options Should be Examined." Report from the United States General Accounting Office - October 2003 Bush Administration Support: Education Secretary Paige Gives "Pell Plus" a Check-Plus - March 4, 2004 Minority Serving Institutions: Promoting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic Serving Institutions (Link to Minority Serving Institutions Issues Page) Reducing Red Tape for Students and Colleges: 21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) introduced bipartisan legislation (H.R. 12) on January 7, 2003, identical to a bill introduced last year with strong bipartisan support, to improve access to higher education for disadvantaged students by reducing red tape in federal student aid programs. The bipartisan measure, dubbed “FED UP,” would make technical corrections to the Higher Education Act that would make it easier for Hispanic-Serving Institutions to receive federal aid, help college students avoid defaulting on their student loans, clarify that federal scholarship aid can go to low-income and minority students for law school, and improve higher education access in other ways recommended by the higher education community. Issue Summary: Reducing Federal Red Tape in Student Aid Programs (FED UP) Student Loans: A Republican Congress produced legislation that has resulted in the lowest student loan interest rate in American history, which took effect on July 1, 2004. On July 1, interest rates on federal Stafford loans issued on or after July 1, 1998, fell to 3.37 percent for borrowers in repayment, down from the previous rate of 3.42 percent. Students in school and in their grace period today have access to the historically low rate of 2.77 percent. In addition, interest rates on Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) dropped from 4.22 percent to 4.17 percent - the lowest rate ever for PLUS loans. The formula that made these low interest rates possible was negotiated by Rep. Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) as part of the 1998 Higher Education Act reauthorization. Committee Hearings and Markups: On July 13, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Increasing the Focus on Graduation Rates and Student Outcomes" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On June 22, 2004, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Does Accreditation Provide Students and Parents Accountability and Quality?" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On June 16, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Are Students at Proprietary Institutions Treated Equitably Under Current Law?" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On May 12, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access and Opportunity Act" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On March 17, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "Fiscal Responsibility and Federal Consolidation Loans: Examining Cost Implications for Taxpayers, Students, and Borrowers" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On October 6, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a field hearing on "Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education: Honoring the Contributions of America's Hispanic Serving Institutions" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On September 25, 2003, the Full Committee held a markup on H.R. 3076, Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act and H.R. 3077, International Studies in Higher Education Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3076. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3077. On September 17, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a markup on H.R. 3076, Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act and H.R. 3077, International Studies in Higher Education Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3076. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3077. On September 11, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on H.R. 3039, the Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On September 9, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a hearing on Beyond Baccalaureate: Graduate Programs in the Higher Education Act - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On July 22, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Consolidation Loans: What’s Best for Past Borrowers, Future Students, & U.S. Taxpayers? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On July 15, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Expanding Access to College in America: How the Higher Education Act Can Put College Within Reach - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On July 10, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Affordability in Higher Education: We know there's a problem; What's the solution? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On June 19, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a hearing on International Programs in Higher Education and Questions of Bias - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On June 10, 2003, the House Education and the Workforce Committee held a markup on H.R. 438, Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act of 2003 and H.R. 2211, Ready to Teach Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 438. Opening Statement and Related Documents on H.R. 2211. On June 4, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a markup on H.R. 438, Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act of 2003 and H.R. 2211, Ready to Teach Act. Both bills were approved by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 438. Opening Statement and Related Documents on H.R. 2211. On May 20, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on America's Teacher Colleges: Are They Making the Grade? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony On May 13, 2003, the Education & the Workforce Committee held a hearing on The State of American Higher Education: What Are Parents, Students, and Taxpayers Getting for Their Money - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
The College Cost Crisis: A Congressional Analysis of College Costs and Implications for America's Higher Education System
Click here to read the new report!
Press Statements:
Graduate Opportunities Act Offered to Strengthen Graduate Programs, Build on K-12 Education Reform - September 15, 2003
Hoekstra Bill Offered to Strengthen International Studies in Higher Education, Fulfill National Security Needs - September 15, 2003
Cole Bill Will Expand Opportunities in Higher Education, Increase Access for Students, Witnesses Testify - September 11, 2003
Cole, House Republicans Introduce Bill to Expand Opportunities in Higher Education & Boost Minority Serving Institutions - September 9, 2003
Graduate Programs Provide a Valuable National Resource, Improve Education at All Levels, say Witnesses - September 9, 2003
House GOP Education Committee Leaders Release Report on College Cost Crisis - September 4, 2003
President Signs Kline Bill to Provide Student Loan Relief to Troops - August 19, 2003
Setting the Record Straight on Pell Grants - August 9, 2003
Boehner, Kline Commend Senate Passage of Bill to Ease Financial Burdens on Troops: HEROES Now Awaits President’s Signature - August 4, 2003
McKeon, Emanuel Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase College Access, Streamline Financial Aid Formula - July 25, 2003
Loan Consolidation Has Mixed Impact on Higher Education, Witnesses Tell House Subcommittee - July 22, 2003
House GOP Education Leaders Declare Cost Crisis in Higher Education; Announce Principles for Reform - July 22, 2003
Subcommittee Hears Testimony on Expanding Access to College for Needy Students - July 15, 2003
Witnesses Testify on Potential Solutions to Affordability Crisis in Higher Education - July 10, 2003
House Approves Bills to Help States & Schools Put a Qualified Teacher in Every Classroom - July 9, 2003
Witnesses Debate Questions of Bias in International Studies Programs - June 19, 2003
Bills to Support Teachers, Improve Teacher Training Programs Ready for House Consideration - June 10, 2003
Subcommittee Approves Bills to Strengthen Teacher Training Programs, Increase Loan Forgiveness - June 4, 2003
Gingrey, House Education Committee Members Offer Bill to Strengthen Teacher Training Programs, Improve Teacher Quality - May 22, 2003
Committee Leaders Launch Effort to Ensure Accountability & Quality in U.S. Higher Education - May 13, 2003
House Republicans Mark Teacher Appreciation Week - May 7, 2003
House Passes Bipartisan Bill to Provide Student Loan Relief for U.S. Troops - April 1, 2003
Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Waive Student Loan Obligations for U.S. Troops - March 25, 2003
President Bush’s FY 2004 Education Budget “Spends More, and Spends It More Wisely,” Boehner Says - February 3, 2003
Dear Colleague Letters:
Non-Profit Student Aid Providers Oppose Retroactive Cuts that would Jeopardize Student Loan Benefits - October 6, 2004
Expand Student Loan Relief for Teachers by Ending Excess Loan Provider Profits - October 6, 2004
Democrat Student Lending Amendment is the Wrong Way to do the Right Thing - September 9, 2004
Fuzzy Math and False Expectations: Hidden Costs and the Direct Student Loan Program - July 23, 2004
Help Students & Parents Make More Informed Choices with their College Dollars; Cosponsor the College Access & Opportunity Act - July 21, 2004
Let the Market Decide; Dissatisfied Schools Should Not be Pressured to Participate in the Direct Student Loan Program - July 20, 2004
Hidden Costs and the Direct Student Loan Program – Americans Deserve the Facts Before Congress Asks Them to Pay Even More - July 9, 2004
Strengthen Pell Grants for American Students; Cosponsor the College Access & Opportunity Act - July 7, 2004
Expand College Access for Low and Middle-Income Students - June 22, 2004
Americans Deserve Facts on Direct Student Loan Program’s Hidden Costs – Before Congress Asks Them to Pay Even More - May 20, 2004
Common Sense on Student Loans - May 7, 2004
The College Access & Opportunity Act; Expanding College Access for Low and Middle-Income Students - May 6, 2004
Ensure Current and Future Students are Priority Number One in Federal Higher Education Aid - May 5, 2004
Outdated “90-10” Higher Education Rule Reduces College Access for Poor & Minority Students – and Must Be Eliminated - April 30, 2004
Don’t Let Interest Rates Double on Student Loans - April 28, 2004
Access for Low & Middle-Income Students Should Be First Priority in Higher Education Subsidies - April 27, 2004
Put College Access for Low and Middle Income Students First - April 27, 2004
Fixed-Rate Consolidation Loans Will Cost Low & Middle Income Students $21 Billion Over Seven Years - April 19, 2004
Protect America by Protecting Equal Campus Access for Military Recruiters - March 29, 2004
Runaway Mandatory Spending May Threaten College Access for Low & Middle Income Students - March 22, 2004
Want to Create Good Jobs for U.S. Workers? Reform America's Education System - March 10, 2004
$10,636: Affordable for Whom? - October 29, 2003
Co-Sponsor Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Success of International Studies Programs in the Post 9-11 Era - October 8, 2003
College Access vs. College Excess: Extravagant Spending at Higher Learning Institutions Drives Up Tuition Costs, NY Times Reveals - October 7, 2003
Don't Fall for the Partisan Pell Grant Fraud - October 2, 2003
Wall Street Journal on Democrat Claims of Pell Grant ‘cuts’: “The numbers tell a different story” - September 17, 2003
International Studies Programs Help Fulfill National Security Needs - September 9, 2003
Graduate Opportunities Act: Strengthening Education at Every Level - September 9, 2003
Cleveland Plain Dealer Calls on Senate to Join House in Improving Teacher Training Programs - August 13, 2003
Houston Chronicle: “Higher Education is at a Crisis Point” - July 29, 2003
Help Recruit and Retain Highly Qualified Teachers in High Need Areas - June 20, 2003
Higher Education: What are Parents, Students, and Taxpayers Getting for Their Money? - June 12, 2003
Historically Black Colleges and Universities: A Source of Great Pride for Our Entire Nation -- February 11, 2003
Fact Sheets:
Democrat Plan for Pell Grants Would Shortchange Neediest Students, Deepen Pell Grant Budget Shortfall - November 22, 2004
Non-Profit Student Aid Organizations Oppose Retroactive Cuts in 9.5% Student Loan Subsidies - UPDATED: October 6, 2004
How Republicans Would Permanently End Excess Taxpayer Subsidies for Student Loan Providers - October 5, 2004
Gregg-Boehner Plan Would Address Teacher Shortage in Struggling Schools - September 30, 2004
Democrats Stalled Legislation for Months Shutting Down Excess Subsidies to Student Loan Providers - September 30, 2004
House GOP Higher Education Bills Boost Minority Serving Institutions, Build on Dramatic Funding Increases - UPDATED: July 22, 2004
Democrat Obstruction is Keeping Americans Out of Work - June 2004
They Were for It, Before They Were Against It - Democrat Leaders' Shifting Stance on Variable-Rate Consolidation Loans - May 2004
Higher Education in Crisis: How Congressional Republicans are Working to Keep the Dream of a College Education Within Reach - March 2004
Higher Education: GOP Principles for Reform - February 2004
Bill Summaries:
Reports and Other Resources:
Bush Administration Support:
Minority Serving Institutions:
Reducing Red Tape for Students and Colleges:
21st Century Competitiveness Subcommittee Chairman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) introduced bipartisan legislation (H.R. 12) on January 7, 2003, identical to a bill introduced last year with strong bipartisan support, to improve access to higher education for disadvantaged students by reducing red tape in federal student aid programs.
The bipartisan measure, dubbed “FED UP,” would make technical corrections to the Higher Education Act that would make it easier for Hispanic-Serving Institutions to receive federal aid, help college students avoid defaulting on their student loans, clarify that federal scholarship aid can go to low-income and minority students for law school, and improve higher education access in other ways recommended by the higher education community.
Issue Summary: Reducing Federal Red Tape in Student Aid Programs (FED UP)
Student Loans:
A Republican Congress produced legislation that has resulted in the lowest student loan interest rate in American history, which took effect on July 1, 2004. On July 1, interest rates on federal Stafford loans issued on or after July 1, 1998, fell to 3.37 percent for borrowers in repayment, down from the previous rate of 3.42 percent. Students in school and in their grace period today have access to the historically low rate of 2.77 percent.
In addition, interest rates on Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) dropped from 4.22 percent to 4.17 percent - the lowest rate ever for PLUS loans. The formula that made these low interest rates possible was negotiated by Rep. Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-CA) as part of the 1998 Higher Education Act reauthorization.
Committee Hearings and Markups:
On July 13, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Increasing the Focus on Graduation Rates and Student Outcomes" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On June 22, 2004, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Does Accreditation Provide Students and Parents Accountability and Quality?" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On June 16, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access & Opportunity Act: Are Students at Proprietary Institutions Treated Equitably Under Current Law?" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On May 12, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "H.R. 4283, the College Access and Opportunity Act" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On March 17, 2004, the Full Committee held a hearing on "Fiscal Responsibility and Federal Consolidation Loans: Examining Cost Implications for Taxpayers, Students, and Borrowers" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On October 6, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a field hearing on "Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education: Honoring the Contributions of America's Hispanic Serving Institutions" - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On September 25, 2003, the Full Committee held a markup on H.R. 3076, Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act and H.R. 3077, International Studies in Higher Education Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3076. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3077.
On September 17, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a markup on H.R. 3076, Graduate Opportunities in Higher Education Act and H.R. 3077, International Studies in Higher Education Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3076. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 3077.
On September 11, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on H.R. 3039, the Expanding Opportunities in Higher Education Act - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On September 9, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a hearing on Beyond Baccalaureate: Graduate Programs in the Higher Education Act - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On July 22, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Consolidation Loans: What’s Best for Past Borrowers, Future Students, & U.S. Taxpayers? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On July 15, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Expanding Access to College in America: How the Higher Education Act Can Put College Within Reach - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On July 10, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on Affordability in Higher Education: We know there's a problem; What's the solution? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On June 19, 2003, the Subcommittee on Select Education held a hearing on International Programs in Higher Education and Questions of Bias - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On June 10, 2003, the House Education and the Workforce Committee held a markup on H.R. 438, Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act of 2003 and H.R. 2211, Ready to Teach Act. Both bills were approved, amended by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 438. Opening Statement and Related Documents on H.R. 2211.
On June 4, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a markup on H.R. 438, Teacher Recruitment and Retention Act of 2003 and H.R. 2211, Ready to Teach Act. Both bills were approved by voice vote. Opening Statements and Related Documents on H.R. 438. Opening Statement and Related Documents on H.R. 2211.
On May 20, 2003, the Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness held a hearing on America's Teacher Colleges: Are They Making the Grade? - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
On May 13, 2003, the Education & the Workforce Committee held a hearing on The State of American Higher Education: What Are Parents, Students, and Taxpayers Getting for Their Money - Opening Statements and Witness Testimony
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