(November 2009) Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) spoke at an event with students, campus administrators, and faculty on the campus of the Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) this week. To begin the event, students spoke of their frustration with student debt levels and Franken followed up by mentioning the Pell Grant increase in the President's plan for federal student aid.

Campus administrators also got the opportunity to ask questions and COHEAO Board Member Larry Rock of Concordia College spoke up with his concerns with the elimination of the in-school interest subsidy and unique loan forgiveness aspects of the Perkins Loan Programs. Franken responded that he agreed with Rock on these issues and would be looking to ensure their inclusion in the student loan reform bill in the Senate.

This town hall event provided the opportunity for a truly productive exchange between Larry and Sen. Franken. Members of Congress and Senators will be returning home often in the final part of 2009 and many may host similar events on campus to discuss this legislation. COHEAO encourages all members to attend these types of events when practicable and speak up and ask your questions and share your concerns.

We also encourage all members to call their legislators and their staffs to discuss the proposed changes for Perkins. If a Senator or Member has an office near your home or work, these upcoming Congressional breaks may also provide an opportunity for in-person meetings.

Please feel free to contact Harrison Wadsworth (hwadsworth@wpllc.net) or Wes Huffman (whuffman@wpllc.net) if you would like assistance in contacting your legislators’ Washington offices. Harrison and Wes can also answer any questions you may have if you prefer to contact these offices on your own.

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