Tim Walberg: “For many young people, higher education has become a very expensive dream because of rising costs. The average new…”

“For many young people, higher education has become a very expensive dream because of rising costs. The average new graduate is struggling to pay off more than $25,000 in debt while hunting for a job in this stagnant economy. While Washington can play a role in fixing the problem, we cannot look to the Federal Government alone to fix this problem. Instead, we must work with State governments, schools, students, and parents to find a solution. Within the past decade, costs have risen 66 percent beyond the rate of inflation. Instead of trying to work with schools, the Federal Government has been busy implementing policies that increase their costs. My colleagues and I on the Higher Education and Workforce Training Subcommittee are looking at how to simplify and strengthen Federal aid programs. It's obvious more needs to be done to help students and families make the best decision possible about their education at a price they can afford. My goal is to continue to identify and remove unnecessary and costly burdens from this process and put the dream of higher education in reach of more students. ____________________”