Ruppersberger Supports Student Aid Bill

(Washington, D.C.)- Today Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) proudly supported H.R. 3221, the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act.  The measure is the single largest investment in college aid in American history to help students and families pay for college at no cost to taxpayers.  It passed the United States House of Representatives by 253 to 171 this afternoon.

H.R. 3221, the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act:
• Reforms the federal student loan system to save taxpayers $87 billion
• Invests $77 billion of those savings back into education to make college more affordable
• Directs $10 billion of those savings back to the Treasury to reduce entitlement spending 
• Increases Pell Grants from $5,350 in 2009 to $5,550 in 2010 to $6,900 in 2019 
• Keeps interest rates low on subsidized federal student loans 
• Makes it easier for families applying for financial aid by simplifying the FASFA form and allowing students and families to apply for aid using the information on their tax returns

In Maryland, the measure will invest $480.1 million over the next ten years.     

“Times are tough here in Maryland and across our nation, but a rough economy should not ruin a student’s dream of going to college.  I believe every child who wants to go to college should have the opportunity to attend through grants, loans, or other financial aid.  This bill helps make the dream of going to college a reality for Maryland families.  It is critically important as we work to keep our country strong and ensure our work force remains the most highly skilled and cutting-edge in the world,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD).

The measure must pass the Senate and be signed by the President before it can become law.         

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