College Affordability Survey (Link)
Dear Friend,
While college is not for every student—indeed there are many skilled trades that pay a living wage but don’t require a degree— it has become increasingly hard to secure a stable, middle-class lifestyle with a high school diploma.
For prospective college students across Oregon, April is an exciting month. They have received their acceptance letters and have until May 1 to commit to the school of their choosing. This will be one of the most consequential decisions of their young lives. There are many factors to weigh: how far to travel from home, what programs and majors are available, and a school’s setting. One of the most significant is the financial burden this will place on both their family and their future.
President Biden is working to address the student debt crisis. He has canceled nearly $138 billion in student debt for almost 4 million borrowers. His SAVE plan reformed the loan repayment system to make repayments more manageable for low- and middle-income borrowers. These are historic steps toward easing the crushing burden of debt borne by 43 million Americans.
But the Biden-Harris Administration cannot solve this problem alone. Even with debt relief, many students will continue to be trapped under a mountain of debt as long as higher education remains incredibly expensive. It is past time for Congress to act.
I have supported several legislative solutions to make college more affordable. From doubling the Pell Grant, to expanding access for public service and teacher loan forgiveness programs, and increasing federal investments in Community College and Career Technical Education. Most recently, I supported the College for All Act which would eliminate tuition and fees at public colleges and universities for families making under $125,000 a year, allow Americans to re-finance their student loans, and enact a reasonable interest rate on government loans.
As the Class of 2024 contemplates their college and career pathway, and as Congress begins considering next year’s federal budget, I want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on college affordability, and what can the federal government do to support future generations of students?
College Affordability Survey (Link)
Together, we can pave the way so future generations of students aren’t forced to choose between earning their degree and avoiding endless debt.
