From US Newswire:
U.S. House Republican education committee leaders John Boehner (R-OH) and Howard P. "Buck" McKeon (R-CA) today called attention to a new report that debunks Democrat claims that states have slashed spending for higher education, and again called on Democrat leaders and college lobbying organizations to explain why federally-funded colleges and universities should not be held accountable for excessive tuition increases that hurt parents and students.
The report, released today by the State Higher Education Executive Officers (SHEEO), directly contradicts claims made by top Democrats and college lobbying organizations, who have said state cuts in higher education spending are the primary cause of the soaring tuition costs that have been hurting low and middle- income students for more than a decade. A copy of the new report can be found online [here].
"Rising tuition costs are hurting low and middle-income families at a time when having a college degree is more important than ever," said Boehner. "Tuition costs have been rising at hyperinflationary levels for more than a decade. Parents and students want to know why, and so does Congress."
"College lobbyists and Democratic leaders have said the tuition hikes are a result of states cutting their higher education spending. But this study shows that isn't the case," Boehner said. "It's disturbing that some in Washington are trying to justify these skyrocketing tuition rates, and even more disturbing that some would use them as a rationale for further increases in government spending."
"The higher education elites in Washington have been blaming state budget cuts for tuition hikes as long as I have been involved with the college cost crisis. This study proves that they have been barking up the wrong tree the entire time," said McKeon. "It's high time that college lobbyists and my friends on the Democratic side of the aisle recognize the real reason behind these tuition increases and work to provide meaningful relief for students and families around America."
Matt's Chat
The Democrat's bill (HR 3519) would cut funding to states that reduce college funding. Like that would help. The Republican plan (HR 4283) would hold the colleges accountable for excessive tuition increases.Having served in Student Government at Northern Kentucky University, I know that there is a responsiblity to keep tuition low that is not being taken seriously by the administrations of our nation's colleges and universities. There is a tendency to push for expensive projects that are not neccessary for the betterment of the educational experience, but are rather "status symbols" for the institution. This sort of thing must be challenged at every opportunity.
Mark's Remarks
Hmmm...Democrats and liberal colleges in an alliance to get more money for social programs at the expense of poor students? Very interesting....See, folks, the problem is not in slashing state funding for higher ed, the problem is in colleges and universities deciding to use their money unwisely, and then to blame whoever is in power in government for shortfalls. Love when the Democrats are proven to be the misleaders they really are.
