1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

I am writing to strongly urge you to ensure that any provisions in the pending reconciliation bill related to higher education protect funding and programs that provide financial aid, support critical research, and make it possible for anyone – regardless of background and/or socioeconomic status – to attend and thrive at higher education institutions.   More specifically, I commend efforts that were made in the Senate committee to address some of the most egregious policy changes included in the House version of the bill. However, very serious issues remain.   In general, this legislation threatens to impose severe and lasting harm on our nation’s educational institutions — particularly those that have served as engines of social mobility, research, and innovation for over a century.   This issue matters deeply to me because I am one of millions of American college graduates who would never have been able to receive a higher education without some kind of assistance. The cost of going to college has far outpaced wage growth and nobody can afford what is necessary to get a job in this country. The opportunities I and so many others received were made possible by investments in and policies that open doors to higher education. The reconciliation bill stands to undermine that progress.   The proposed cuts and limitations to financial aid are especially troubling. They would send a dangerous message: that our government is willing to devalue the very institutions that cultivate critical thinking, civic engagement, and upward mobility. This is not just a budgetary decision — it’s a decision about our values and our future.   Again, I respectfully urge you to stand up for higher education. Your leadership can help safeguard access to quality education and affirm the importance of institutions that have long been pillars of progress in our society.   Thank you for your time and for your public service. I look forward to hearing your stance on this important matter. This is a defining moment for Oregon and our country.   It is a test of conscience as much as policy — and the world is watching.