As high school seniors across Florida make decide where they will attend college next fall, Congress took a historic step last week to make that goal more attainable.
Larry Byrnes supports the College Opportunity and Affordability Act, which includes billions of dollars in new financial aid for low-income, minority and disabled students, veterans and those from military families. The Act also simplifies the financial aid application process and restores integrity and accountability to the student loan program.
"Education is the key to our economic future, expanding the middle class, strengthening our workforce, and making us more globally competitive," Larry says. "It also serves as the great equalizer by helping everyone to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for success in a 21st century world. The College Opportunity and Affordability Act sends a powerful message that all Americans deserve the benefits of a world class educational system."
Despite strong bipartisan support, Congressman Connie Mack voted against the bill, one of only a handful of Republicans to do so. Moreover, this was not the first time he has turned his back on helping Florida's students pay for higher education. Last year, when Congress passed the College Cost Reduction Act, which the President signed into law, Mack voted against that legislation.
Larry Byrnes understands the essential importance of a college education. The first in his family to attend college, he has spent close to 45 years working in education, including nearly a decade as a dean and professor at Florida Gulf Coast University. He is committed to working to assure all Florida children have that same educational opportunity he has helped provide at Florida Gulf Coast University.
"The College Opportunity and Affordability Act is a prime example of bipartisan collaboration where political ideology takes a back seat to investment in the American people, Larry says. "It is unfortunate that Congressman Mack voted against the best interests of students and families."