Washington, DC – The House of Representatives today included three provisions put forth by Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-CA), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, in the Higher Education Opportunity Act, which passed by a vote of 380 to 49.  The legislation will make colleges more affordable and accessible by reforming the higher education system to operate in the best interests of students and families.

“This reauthorization is long overdue, but I believe the bill is very good for our nation’s students and their families,” said Woolsey.  “Families in the Bay Area have seen tuition costs skyrocket, and they need to know that the Congress is doing everything possible to ensure that every one in America will have access to higher education."

The legislation would address rising tuition costs by encouraging colleges to rein in price increases, ensuring that states maintain their commitments to higher education funding, providing students and families with consumer friendly information on college pricing, and streamlining the federal student financial aid application process.  In addition, the legislation would expand college access for students by increasing Pell Grant limits and providing loan forgiveness for teachers, nurses, and first responders.

In addition, it includes three provisions introduced by Woolsey aimed at increasing the number of women and minority professors; ensuring that students have the skills sought by local employers; and increasing the number of community college students who complete their studies.

Patsy Mink Fellowships – Named in memory of the late Congresswoman Patsy Mink of Hawaii, these fellowships will provide financial support for women and minority students who pursue advanced degrees in order to become college professors.

Business Workforce Partnerships – This proposal will identify high-wage, high-demand jobs in local labor markets and create educational pathways for students to access those occupations.  Local colleges would partner with businesses to link credit-bearing college courses to business workforce needs.

Bridges from Jobs to Careers – Woolsey’s proposal would encourage colleges to find innovative ways to improve remedial education for students by customizing the classes to their career and academic goals, modifying schedules, and accelerating course content.  These are steps that will increase the likelihood that the students will complete their studies.

“Now more than ever, access to higher education is a gateway to good paying jobs, and a comfortable living,” said Woolsey.  “That’s why we must expand the field of opportunities for our young people, and provide them with the skills and flexibility to not only succeed academically, but to develop the skills necessary to reach their potential.”