Senate Introduces Bipartisan Resolution Expressing Strong Support for Continuation of Perkins Loan Program
Prepared by: Hannah Allen (hallen@wpllc.net)
September 24, 2015
On September 24, a bi-partisan group of senators introduced a resolution (attached) expressing support for continuation of the Federal Perkins Loan Program. It was introduced jointly by Senators Baldwin (D-WI), Collins (R-ME), Portman (R-OH) and Casey (D-PA). The Senate resolution, cosponsored so far by 12 Democrats and 3 Republicans, is similar to H.Res.294, which has garnered support from 57 sponsors from both sides of the aisle since its introduction in the House of Representatives in early June by Reps. Luke Messer (R-IN) and Mark Pocan (D-WI). The Senate resolution will receive a number later today. Support for the program is growing in the House and Senate, and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) has called Perkins her “top priority.”
Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), circulated a statement and fact sheet on the program yesterday – “Allowing the Perkins Loan Program to expire would leave students in the lurch,” she said, calling on the Senate to pass an extension of Perkins as soon as possible so that loans can be made after October 1.
COHEAO continues to work with Congress publicly and behind the scenes to save the Perkins Loan Program and encourages institutions to participate in advocacy efforts. COHEAO is currently seeking student testimonials that describe what a Perkins expiration would mean for current students – such as having to take out additional Parent PLUS loans, reduce credit loads and delay graduation, or work extra hours. Testimonials will be used to illustrate the immediate impact that a Perkins expiration would cause and will be sent to congressional staff who are working on legislation to extend the program. Please send this information to Hannah Allen at hallen@wpllc.net.
In addition, continue to urge your members of Congress to support a Perkins extension, and also to cosponsor the Senate resolution as well as H.Res. 294. Please visit COHEAO’s Perkins Advocacy page to learn more and to find resources that will support outreach to members of Congress.
