Chamber Praises Passage of Higher Education Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States Chamber of Commerce today praised House action on The College Access and Opportunity Act of 2006 (H.R. 609) and adoption of the American Competitiveness Amendment. The bill would authorize more than $70 billion through 2012 for student financial aid and teacher preparation programs.

"The Chamber recognizes that quality education and workforce investment keep businesses successful and the American economy competitive," said Bruce Josten, Chamber Executive Vice President. "We need to prepare students to be college-ready and workforce-ready."

Many of the programs highlighted in H.R. 609 and the American Competitiveness Amendment, which was sponsored by Rep. Cathy McMorris (R-WA), focus greater attention on achievement in math and science and the need for high-qualified teachers. The amendment will help the productivity and effectiveness of teachers and will contribute to the academic achievement of students.

"Jobs require more technical skills with a greater understanding of math, science, and engineering," said Josten. "American students are falling behind in these areas, and we need to get them back on track."

The Chamber, along with other business organizations, began an initiative called Tapping America's Potential, which calls for the doubling of America's graduates in science, technology, engineering and math by 2015. To succeed in today's economy there must be a collaborative effort in our education system that involves government, education institutions, and businesses.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

www.uschamber.com

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