WASHINGTON— Today, Rep. Grijalva joined Education and Labor Chairman Bobby Scott in introducing the College Affordability Act, the newest reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. The legislation would overhaul the current higher education system and significantly lower the cost of college for students and families.

“A college degree is one of the best indicators for future success, yet millions of students are denied this opportunity due to rising costs and exorbitant student loan debt,” said Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. “This legislation reinforces the promise we made to our students to ensure college affordability, address the student debt crisis, and expand access to college degrees for students from all backgrounds.”

The legislation takes comprehensive steps to ensure that states restore their investments in public colleges and universities, eases the burdens of student loans, and reinstates Obama-era guidelines to reign-in predatory for-profit colleges that profit off vulnerable students. It increases and permanently reauthorizes funding for Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). Additionally, it addresses affordability issues in vulnerable immigrant communities and expands access to federal aid for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students, individuals who would have qualified for Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA), and individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

“Investing in students means investing in the future success of our country,” continued Rep. Grijalva. “As a former school board member, I’m proud to continue championing legislation that prioritizes the long-term success of our students and ensures that all children—no matter their race, origin, or zip code—have access to the educational opportunities they need to succeed in the future.”

Rep. Grijalva has served as a longtime leader in Congress on education issues. Most recently, he led the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in announcing their priorities for the College Affordability Act, some of which were included in the final bill.  

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