In Support of Amendment 132 to H.R. 1, Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011

Floor Speech

* Ms. MATSUI. I rise today in opposition to the CR put forward by my Republican colleagues, and in support of the amendment offered by Ms. CHU of California, which would restore full funding to the Pell Grant program.

* H.R. 1 makes severe cuts to student aid programs in a time of tuition increases and tough economic standings. These cuts will impose an even heavier burden on many students and families. Specifically, this bill makes the largest cut the Pell Grant program, more than 15 percent.

* The Federal Pell Grant program provides much needed financial support for more than nine million students nationwide and makes. This amendment would specifically maintain the maximum award level for Pell Grants at $5,550.

* Pell Grant are solely based on an individual's financial needs and are not required to be paid back. They are an effective mechanism to help students offset the expensive costs of text books, room and board, and school supplies.

* For many, this grant makes the difference between attending college or dropping out because they don't have the money to afford tuition or books. Yet we know that access to higher education is critical to our nation's economic competitiveness.

* We need to do be more to encourage students to pursue education. Unfortunately, this legislation will only set us backwards.

* This funding is crucial for students in my district and these drastic cuts will have an adverse affect on our nation's ability to be an economic leader. Maintaining access to quality and affordable education is a vital priority.

* I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this amendment and against this C.R.

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