Issue Position: Education

Issue Position

Preparing Our Youth, Supporting Well-Equipped Educators

Every child has a right to a quality education. Our schools must be at the fore of forward thinking and our teachers must be well-equipped to take us there. To do this, we must set the stage for our youngest learners with strong early childhood development and education programs. Our elementary, middle, and high schools must receive the funding they need so well-trained teachers have the resources to teach effectively and have the flexibility they need to properly educate our students in modernized classrooms. And every qualified high school graduate who is willing to work for it should have the opportunity to earn a college diploma. Financial barriers should not be a factor in determining whether or not a student successfully completes college or not.

Making College More Affordable, Accessible

More recently, to break down some of the barriers of college financing, Brian has introduced legislation to provide a variety of tax benefits to help students and families save for a college education, and repay loans after graduation:

Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)

Right now, middle class families are able to save for their child's K-12 and college education with accounts called Coverdell Education Savings Accounts. Brian's bill would expand the amount a family could save tax-free each year from $2,000 to $5,000.

Student Loan Interest Deduction (SLID)

Graduates can now deduct up to $2500 of the interest they pay on student loans. Brian's bill would make all of student loan interest deductible and would expand the deduction to more middle class individuals and families.

Tax-free Scholarships, Fellowships and Grants Use for Room and Board

Scholarships, fellowships and grants are tax free as long as you use the money for qualified higher education expenses such as tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment. However, if you use your scholarship for room and board it is taxable and you will be required to report it as income. Brian's bill would make room and board a qualified higher education expense that would not be taxable.

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