Dear Friend,

We know that access to higher education and skills training programs are critical for giving our young people the opportunity to succeed and get ahead in the 21^st Century economy. That’s why it’s so disappointing that the budget proposed by President Trump and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos cuts funding for higher education and college affordability programs. This week, I gathered with students and educators at Keene State College to discuss these misguided cuts and how we can work together to improve access to the education our young people need. The message I heard from participants was clear: we need to keep college and educational opportunities affordable and accessible for Granite State students.

You can read more about my visit in the Keene Sentinel by clicking here! 

Discussing the importance of access to higher education at Keene State College

One of my top priorities in Congress is to reduce college costs for students and lower the cost of higher education. I’m fighting to strengthen and expand Pell Grants through the Affordability for Constant and Continual Education to Enhance Student Success Act and the Year-Round Pell Grant Restoration Act. This spring, I helped reintroduce the Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act to allow students to refinance their student loans at lower interest rates.

But I’m also working to expand access to community college and job training programs for Granite Staters. Earlier this year, I put forward theWorkforce Development Investment Act, which would create tax incentives to encourage companies to partner with education providers to develop workforce training programs for skills that are in demand within their community or region. It would create a separate credit for the cost of direct training conducted as part of an educational partnership or licensed apprenticeship.

There are many ways to support our young people as they prepare for the jobs of the future and I want to expand as many opportunities as possible, whether it be a traditional four year degree, technical training, or apprenticeships. Sadly, the message being sent from the White House is that our kids are on their own. That’s not an option, and we can’t let a generation be left behind. Please be assured that I will fight the misguided cuts proposed by the Trump Administration and work to expand educational opportunities for all Americans.

Sincerely,