Duncan Faircloth: “I rise to speak on education, particularly vocational education. This past January, I introduced, with Senator Craig, S.…”

“I rise to speak on education, particularly vocational education. This past January, I introduced, with Senator Craig, S. 50, which provides a $1,500 tax credit for students at vocational and technical schools and community colleges. S. 50, today, has the support of 11 other Members, including the majority leader. Recently, the tax credit for vocational training found a place in Senator Roth's budget reconciliation package. The provision provides a 75-percent tax credit for up to $2,000 in expenses at a community college. Now, for the average student spending around $1,500 in annual tuition and books, that amounts to a $1,125 tax credit. I would like to thank Senator Roth for his support of vocational training in the budget package. Under the House budget package, a student would only receive a 50-percent credit for up to $3,000. That amounts to $1,500 for a 4-year student. But for community college students, who are generally of a lower income and are holding jobs while they are in school, it would only amount to $750 or less. I think it is fortunate that the Senate recognizes this and is going to allow a 75-percent tax credit for up to $2,000. I believe that we should give every adult American the opportunity to obtain the training needed to find employment. In fact, we are demanding that they work, so it is incumbent upon us to give them the opportunity to be trained to work.”