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Washington, DC -- Today, Congressman John P. Sarbanes' Education for Public Service Act passed the House of Representatives as part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act. The President is expected to sign the bill into law within the coming week.
The Education for Public Service Act allows those who choose a career in public service, such as teachers, public safety officers, and civil servants, to receive significant loan forgiveness in return for ten years of service in the public sector. Congressman Sarbanes introduced this legislation in June and has since been working to have the measure included as part of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, which reauthorizes federal higher education assistance policies. In addition to the public service loan forgiveness provision authored by Sarbanes, the College Cost Reduction and Access Act increases Pell Grant scholarships, reduces interest rates on need-based student loans, and provides the largest single investment in financial aid since the 1944 GI Bill.
"With daunting student loan debt, there is not enough incentive for new graduates to choose a life of public service," said Rep. Sarbanes, a member of the Education and Labor Committee. "We are seeing a trend where the best and brightest choose to enter the workforce in a place where they can be assured debt relief assistance or a salary that allows them to repay loans quickly. Today, public service is not that place. This will make it easier for many graduates to pursue a career of service."
"The College Cost Reduction and Access Act not only makes college more affordable for students who are currently attending school, but also provides financial relief for college graduates facing hefty loan debt. By allowing loan forgiveness for public sector employees after 10 years of service, Rep. Sarbanes has been instrumental in ensuring that graduates’ career options are not limited by their debt," said Rep. George Miller (D-CA), the chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee. "This bill rightfully encourages and rewards the vital public service members of our workforce – a critical step towards strengthening our nation’s middle class."
The House of Representatives passed the College Cost Reduction and Access Act today by a vote of 292 to 97, showing bipartisan support for expanded access to higher education. The Senate also passed the bill today and the President is expected to sign the bill in the coming days.
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