Washington, Mar 30, 2006 -

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) today applauded House passage of legislation that will expand college access for lower- and middle-income students and strengthen and improve our nation’s higher education system. H.R. 609, the College Access and Opportunity Act, provides access to college for low- and middle-income students, removes barriers for non-traditional students, and empowers students and parents with more information about college costs, quality, and accreditation. This bill also builds on significant reforms to student aid programs that are saving taxpayers billions.

“Ensuring that students have access to a quality education is critical to our nation’s competitiveness and to keeping our economy strong. This bill takes important steps to expand college access to lower- and middle-income students, opening the door for more Americans to participate more fully in the American Dream,” Congressman Carter said. “The comprehensive plan bolsters our higher education system by restoring the focus on students, while safeguarding the interests of students, parents, and the American taxpayers.”

Congressman Carter added, “As the Representative for Fort Hood, I am especially pleased that this bill assists our military by allowing active duty military members to be treated as independent students, allowing access to greater financial aid opportunities. This builds on education benefits enacted in February that allowed active duty members of the military to receive loan deferment while serving our nation.”

Below are just a few of the highlights of the College Access and Opportunity Act. This bill:

• Provides additional Pell Grant assistance for high-achieving first- and second-year college students;
• Reduces red tape and simplify the financial aid process for students and families;
• Shines a spotlight on excessive tuition hikes;
• Provides loan relief opportunities for educators, nurses, and other professionals in areas of national need; and
• Strengthens international and foreign-language study programs in the post-9/11 era.