“This overwhelming bipartisan vote on this critical legislation – the first time in 10 years that Congress has reauthorized the Higher Education Act – is another important step by this New Direction Congress to make a college education more affordable and accessible.  It must be noted that this Democratic Majority in Congress already taken action and enacted an increase in Pell Grants and a reduction in the interest rates on student loans.

           

“We believe that, without question, a college education is the best path to the middle class, and an educated workforce is vital to our nation’s competitiveness and economic prosperity.  Among other things, this Conference Report will encourage colleges to rein in price increases, restore integrity and accountability to the student loan program, simplify the federal student aid application process, expand college access and support for low-income and minority students, and ensure equal opportunities for students with disabilities.

           

“I am very pleased with the strong bipartisan support for this Higher Education Opportunity Act just one month before a new class enters college, and can say without reservation that the Democratic Majority will continue to consider proposals that make a college education affordable and accessible to all.”