Rep. Mark Takano Statement on Attempting to Restore Education Benefits for Servicemembers Attending Colleges that Suddenly Close
Washington DC – Earlier today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) submitted an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which would restore eligibility for Department of Defense benefits, including tuition assistance, if an individual is unable to complete their education due to the closure of the school.
Last month, Corinthian Colleges Inc. closed its remaining campuses, leaving more than 16,000 students in limbo and thousands of employees without a job. It is estimated that the closure of Corinthian Colleges Inc. could cost American taxpayers $214 million.
After the House Rules Committee refused to consider the amendment, Takano released the following statement:
“I’m disappointed that the Republican-run House Rules Committee refused to consider an amendment that would restore Department of Defense benefits to veterans who are unable to complete their education because their school closed. As we now know, for-profit colleges have intentionally sought to enroll servicemembers and veterans to their institutions specifically for their guaranteed benefits. With several for-profit colleges being investigated for fraud, and the closure of the largest for-profit college chain Corinthian Colleges, Congress should be working to help the students who have been left with mountains of debt and worthless degrees – especially if they are serving or have served our country. By refusing to consider this amendment, Republicans in the House have aligned themselves with the very worst actors in the for-profit sector, instead of our nation’s heroes. While I’m frustrated with this development, I will continue to explore other avenues to help servicemembers and other students who have been taken advantage of.”
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