Statement from ColorOfChange.org on Efforts by CBC Members to Derail Certificate Programs Regulation Plan

The following is a statement from James Rucker, executive director of ColorOfChange.org, regarding the efforts of six Congressional Black Caucus members to derail the Obama administration’s plan to regulate certificate programs at for-profit colleges:

“We are dismayed by the actions of the six CBC members who have decided to support a Republican-sponsored budget amendment that would hobble the administration’s regulation before a final draft is even released. This industry’s record is beyond checkered; its students make up 10% of those in higher education but also 40% of those who stop making payments on their loans. These CBC members need to explain their position. It is unconscionable that they would obstruct the administration’s efforts to make the for-profit college industry accountable to students and taxpayers.

“We agree with the CBC aide who this week said ‘It’s disgusting to see Democrats, especially members of the CBC, actively shilling for an industry that disproportionately preys on low-income and minority students.’ The petition signed by more than 26,000 ColorOfChange members echoes the arguments made by the Department of Education to members of the CBC: ‘The rule will protect students at for-profit colleges – who are disproportionately black, Hispanic and low-income – from poor quality programs that leave students with very high debts and poor employment prospects…Contrary to industry rhetoric, no students would lose access to college: they could continue to be able to choose from tens of thousands of postsecondary programs…. Congress should not tie the hands of the Department before even seeing the final rule. Such action would deprive everyone from seeing how the final standards will protect vulnerable students and their families, as well as taxpayers.’

“We call on these CBC members, the signers of this ‘Dear Colleague’ letter, to explain their intention to block the funds the administration would need to implement a strong gainful employment rule.”