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Mr. Speaker, when I was elected to the House of Representatives last November, I asked to serve on the Higher Education Subcommittee specifically so I could help make college more affordable for American families, and this bill does just that. It raises Pell Grant awards to their highest level in history. It cuts in half the interest rates students will pay on their student loans, and this bill rewards community service by providing loan forgiveness for those who choose careers in important fields like first responders, law enforcement, firefighters, and nurses.

And we do all of this at no additional cost to the taxpayer. This bill is fully funded, and I am proud to have played a part in crafting this important legislation.