Committee Statements

Prior to 2010 the federal government authorized two loan programs through the Higher Education Act to help students and their families pay for college. As part of the health care overhaul in 2010, the Democrat-led Congress eliminated the Federal Family Education Loan program, which offered student loans through private lenders, and shifted to 100 percent Direct Lending. The federal government now ... Read more »

For many of my colleagues, this hearing might evoke a sense of déjà vu. Not too long ago we debated a nearly identical ambush election rule proposed by the National Labor Relations Board that would stifle employers’ free speech and cripple workers’ free choice. In 2011 the House passed with bipartisan support a bill that would have protected the rights of workers, employers, and unions by reining ... Read more »

So often teachers are unfairly blamed for the problems in our nation’s school. I had excellent teachers throughout my education and know many exceptional teachers. In fact, my own experience highlights the difference a good teacher and educational opportunity can make in the life of a student. While we will take an honest look at teacher preparation programs today, I want to commend the hardworkin... Read more »

Research has confirmed teachers have an enormous influence on student learning and performance. Outside of their parents, teachers are often the single greatest influence on students’ ability to build the best possible life for themselves. Whether as a parent or in our own school days, many of us have had the fortune to witness firsthand the impact a truly exceptional educator can have on a child’... Read more »

Rising health care costs remains a significant challenge for workers and job creators nationwide. According to a survey released by the National Small Business Association, 91 percent of employers reported higher costs at their most recent health insurance renewal; one in four experienced cost increases of 20 percent or more. In a report released last Friday, the nonpartisan actuaries at the Cente... Read more »

Enacted in 1965, the Older Americans Act was established to help older individuals continue living independently in their homes and remain active in their communities. The Act combines federal, state, and local resources to support programs and services that address the needs of the senior population – now estimated at more than 41 million Americans. At the federal level, the Older Americans Act e... Read more »

The debate on early childhood education has taken center stage in recent months. In his State of the Union address last week, President Obama called early education “one of the best investments we can make in a child’s life.” He’s right. Early childhood education and development programs can have a lasting influence on a child, laying the foundation for future success and achievement in school, th... Read more »

In recent weeks there has been a great deal of discussion about the use of executive power. President Obama promised in his State of the Union address to go around Congress when necessary to advance his own agenda. The president’s remarks fit a pattern we’re all too familiar with under this administration, and goes well beyond the attitudes and actions of past administrations of both parties. Be i... Read more »

This is the 12th hearing the committee has held examining a wide range of issues facing the higher education community. From simplifying federal student aid programs to increasing transparency, each hearing has provided a forum to discuss ways we can strengthen the nation’s postsecondary education system to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce. One of this committee’s top prioriti... Read more »

The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs is charged with enforcing the affirmative action and nondiscrimination employment requirements governing federal contractors. It is a tremendous responsibility that affects more than 20,000 businesses and roughly one out of every five American workers. Any government agency with this much influence should exercise its authority judiciously, especi... Read more »