Jenna Robinson’s latest Martin Center column explains how a piece of federal legislation dubbed the PROSPER Act could lead to positive higher education reforms.
There are many small and large changes on the Act’s agenda that would significantly improve and simplify the federal government’s role in higher education. Three important reforms stand out: repealing outdated and unnecessary federal regulation, simplifying the student loan system, and encouraging innovation. A closer look at those reforms reveals how transformative they would be for higher education.
First, the legislation repeals outdated and burdensome federal regulations by removing barriers to experimentation and reducing costs. …
… Second, the PROSPER Act improves federal student aid in many important ways. …
… Third, the bill balances the need for accountability with the right incentives for innovation. Changes to accreditation and distance education are particularly welcome. …
… The strongest opponents to the PROSPER Act changes have been those who benefit from the status quo.
