Boyle Statement Opposing House Republicans’ Dangerous Education Proposal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-13) released the following statement decrying House Republicans' proposed overhaul of the Higher Education Act, which would impose deep cuts to student loan repayment programs:

"This reckless higher education proposal is entirely at odds with the needs of students, graduates, and aspiring scholars in this country. At the very time that student debt is at an all-time high at a whopping $1.4 trillion, this proposal would pull the rug out from under our public servants and middle-class families. We should be expanding loan forgiveness programs, reducing interest rates for student loans, and improving access to education for low-income and first generation college students. Instead, this plan would put higher education further out of reach – at a time, no less, when a college education is often required to get a good-paying job and support a family. Between their tax bill and now this education proposal, Republicans are waging an all-out assault on the middle class.

"As co-chair of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Caucus, I am particularly appalled by Republicans' continued attacks on the PSLF program and now, with this bill, their proposal to end it. I have seen firsthand just how important the PSLF program is to hardworking teachers, nurses, firefighters, police, and other public servants in our country who tirelessly serve our communities despite lower salaries and the burdens of student debt. I will fight this proposal at every turn."

Education affordability and accessibility are among Congressman Boyle's top priorities in Congress, fighting to address our nation's current student debt crisis through loan repayment assistance, refinancing, easing interest rates, and building a stable foundation of college accessibility and affordability. In 2017, Boyle founded the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Caucus which he co-chairs. He is fighting to protect the PSLF program, which helps enable Americans to pursue public service careers despite the strain of their student loan debt. The PSLF Caucus is supported by a coalition of more than fifty organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police and National Education Association. As a consistent champion of working families, Boyle is also the founder and co-chair of the Blue Collar Caucus which advocates for economic justice and middle class workers.
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