DNC Chairman commends Obama for signing historic health care bill

DNC Chairman Tim Kaine issued the following statement after President Obama signed the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act.  The bill, which authorizes the largest investment in higher education in American history, was passed by the House and Senate last week as part of the health care reform process.

"Today, President Obama signed into law the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act.  The signing of this legislation is the culmination of a breathtaking week of campaign promises met – from health reform and arms control to student loan reform.  The legislation President Obama signed today renews our commitment and confidence in the potential of American students to help rebuild our economy and prepare for today's jobs and those of the future.  For too long, too much of that potential has been squandered.  In the face of rising tuition bills and increasingly inadequate federal grants and loans, too many American students were unable to finish their degree or training program.  Others were unable even to begin to pursue a higher education.  Our leadership in the global economy depends on a trained and skilled workforce.   That is why this bill is so important, representing the largest investment in higher education in history.

"These investments will fundamentally change that status quo.  Under the new law more American students will be able to earn a college degree – without accumulating a mountain of debt.  By eliminating wasteful subsidies to private bankers and cutting out the middlemen, this law will make college more affordable - at no cost to taxpayers.  

"This law restores educational opportunities for Americans - from students seeking a traditional four-year degree to those pursuing technical training at their local community college, from young people preparing for a first career to older workers focused on acquiring a new skill.  It is also further proof that Democrats are the party of results -- instead of trying to score political points, we are working hard to help middle class Americans get by in this tough economy.  This is what the American people want, and it's why voters trust Democrats to move our country forward."