July 24, 2018

Rep. Takano Helps Introduce the Aim Higher Act

House Democrats’ vision for an affordable, accessible higher education system

Washington, D.C. –Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released the following statement after announcing the Aim Higher Act, a comprehensive reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, which ensures that every student has a path to a debt-free degree or credential. 

“As a public school teacher for 24 years and a community college trustee for more than two decades, I know that rising college costs put college out of reach for many students in Riverside and across the country. That is why I am proud to join my Democratic colleagues in introducing the Aim Higher Act, which would make higher education more accessible by giving students the opportunity to graduate with a degree debt-free.

“The Aim Higher Act helps students by expanding financial aid, giving them the tools they need to graduate on time, and cracking down on predatory for-profit colleges that defraud students, leaving them with mountains of debt. I am thrilled that this legislation closes the loophole that allows for-profit colleges to prey on student veterans and increases consumer protections to ensure that the promise of the GI Bill is fulfilled.

“This vision to expand opportunities for students is a stark contrast to Republican proposals, like H.R. 4508, the PROSPER Act, which would create even more obstacles for students by making draconian cuts to higher education funding.

“Congress should be working to make higher education more accessible for all, not just those who can afford it. I remain committed to student success and will continue working to ensure that every student in America has the opportunity to earn a debt-free degree that leads to a rewarding career.” 

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