Barbara Lee: Republicans Not Serious About Addressing Student Loan Rate Increase Hikes
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) voted against the GOP plan to eliminate the Prevention and Public Health Fund as a way to stop the doubling of student loan interest rates. The plan passed the House with a 215-195 vote. The Congresswoman spoke in opposition to H.R. 4628 on the House Floor:
“Mr. Speaker, I'm here today to speak out against H.R. 4628, the so-called Interest Rate Reduction Act.
“It is clear to me that Republicans are not serious about addressing the student loan interest rate hikes, with this so-called Interest Rate Reduction Act.
“Their bill is a wolf in sheep's clothing, and would permanently end the Prevention and Public Health Fund, a key component of the Affordable Care Act that promotes wellness, prevents disease, and protects against public health emergencies.
“This prevention Fund is the first mandatory funding stream dedicated to improving public health – and it is extremely important in our fight to prevent chronic diseases, including HIV/AIDS, in Women's health.
“This is such a sad and sinister ploy.
“Instead of pitting student loan relief for middle and low-income families against critical preventive services for middle and low-income families, we should be working toward real solutions.
“Instead of paying for subsidies to big oil, we should invest in our students, who are our future.
“This bill jeopardizes the health of our nation and it uses our students as pawns. And it is morally wrong.
“I hope we defeat this insincere proposal.”
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