The bipartisan, bicameral College Transparency Act sponsored by U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) last week gained another U.S. Senate cosponsor, bringing the total number to 26 cosponsors.
“Student loan debt is rising. To make better decisions regarding where to attend and whether to borrow, students need more information,” Sen. Cassidy said. “Over a quarter of the Senate is actively behind this bill. Support is growing for the College Transparency Act.”
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) on Sept. 18 became the most recent cosponsor to sign on to S. 800, which Sen. Cassidy introduced in March to establish a postsecondary student data system.
“All too often, students are flying blind when it comes to making one of the most expensive decisions of their lives,” said Sen. Grassley. “This bill will empower students with information about the value of a degree at various institutions so they can make the best choice for their future.”
If enacted, the legislation would update the college reporting system for postsecondary data by ensuring accurate reporting on student outcomes, such as enrollment, completion and post-college success across colleges and majors, while ensuring student privacy protections, according to a one-page summary of the bill offered by Sen. Cassidy’s office.
The data would tell students how others with similar backgrounds have fared at an institution of higher education, and help point them toward schools and programs of study best suited to their needs and desired outcomes, according to the summary.
The identical H.R. 1766, introduced in March by U.S. Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI), has 69 cosponsors.