Press Releases

House Education and the Workforce Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx (R-NC) introduced the Promoting Real Opportunity, Success, and Prosperity through Education Reform (PROSPER) Act today. It has been more than 50 years since we have seen a major overhaul of the higher education system and 9 years since the last reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. Americans should no longer accept the status quo of outdated laws that aren’t working for the majority of students. “Since the last bill came out, we had a big recession and tremendous technological changes,” said Chairwoman Foxx. “We have a shortage of 6 million skilled workers. What we want to do is help colleges provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.”

Congressman Rick W. Allen (R-GA-12), a member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, released the following statement after the PROSPER Act was introduced:

“I applaud Chairwoman Foxx’s introduction of the PROSPER Act today. Georgia’s 12^th district is home to many higher education institutions, serving the needs of students across the state and country. I know how important it is to provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the current workforce, and that doesn’t always mean a four year degree is right for everyone. Earlier this year, I held multiple higher education roundtables throughout GA-12 to discuss reform.  The feedback from the higher education community was invaluable as my colleagues and I drafted the PROSPER Act. The clear take away for me was that Georgia students need simplification, flexibility, and on the job training.  

“Before I was elected to Congress, I worked in the construction industry for more than 30 years – an industry that has embraced apprenticeship programs. I am so grateful that Chairwoman Foxx included language to further expand apprenticeship programs in America. This is the first time such language has been included in Higher Education Act legislation.

“The PROSPER Act is a historic package of higher education reforms that will ensure a limited federal role in higher education, simplify the student aid process, and empower students and families to make informed decisions. As a business owner, the greatest joy of my life has been creating jobs for folks in my community; affording them the ability to provide for their family, for their church and their hometown—an opportunity that should be available to all Americans. With 6 million open jobs in this country, the education and business communities must work together to cultivate a qualified workforce. We must make a change, and I am hopeful that the PROSPER Act will be that change.”

Click here to learn more about the PROSPER Act.

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