U.S. Rep. Mike Bishop (R-MI) outlined legislative efforts to advance higher education on Friday during a roundtable discussion held at Michigan State University.
Bishop, a member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, and U.S. Rep. John Kline (R-MN), the chairman of the committee, discussed legislative efforts to streamline information, to improve student aid processes and to slash regulatory burdens facing schools.
“As our nation moves forward into the 21st century, it’s clear that our higher education system has not,” Bishop said. “Too many students are struggling to make their college and career goals a reality, while schools are being held back by countless federal regulations. The committee is focused on addressing these issues – and (Friday’s) roundtable was a constructive part of that effort. I’m grateful Chairman Kline could be part of today’s discussion to share the committee’s progress and hear from many of the state’s outstanding schools. With this input, Michigan will undoubtedly play a key role in the higher education reauthorization process.”
Kline added that the nation’s higher education system is too expensive, too bureaucratic and too outdated.
“I want to thank Congressman Bishop for providing the opportunity to speak directly with education leaders from across the state of Michigan,” Kline said. “The feedback we received will inform our efforts to strengthen higher education and help more Americans pursue the dream of earning a college degree.”
Representatives from Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University, Eastern Michigan University, Central Michigan University, Lansing Community College and Dorsey Schools participated in the roundtable.