Issue Position: Affordable College

Issue Position

Congress Passes Doggett Proposal for New $14 billion More Education Tax Credit:

The Recovery Act included my proposal for a new higher education tax credit of up to $2,500 of the cost of tuition and related expenses paid during the taxable year. Forty percent of the tax credit -- up to $1000 -- would be refundable--this means that families that need help the most will benefit from this tax credit. It is estimated that it will provide $14 billion in tax relief over two years for those seeking more education after high school.

Congress Passes Historic Student Loan Reforms:

With my support, Congress passed the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, which eliminates the unnecessary middleman-role of private financial institutions in the federal student loan system. By cutting red tape, and lending directly to students, the federal government will have nearly $68 billion dollars more over the next decade for our students and more resources left over to reduce the national debt. The legislation represents the largest single investment ever in higher education, with $40 billion more put into Pell Grants by raising the maximum amount to nearly $6000.

Congressman Doggett Defends Funding for Teach for America:

As a member of the Congressional Public Service Caucus, I have consistently supported funding for public service programs like Teach for America. Earlier this year, when Secretary of Education Arne Duncan came before the House Budget Committee to discuss the President's budget proposal cutting this program, I urged him to maintain funding for Teach for America.

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