Cicilline seeks student loan stories

In an e-mail to constituents this morning, Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI1) voiced his opposition to Republican efforts to poison the student loan rate deal and announced a web page where students (and parents!) can share their student loan stories.

At issue is the interest rate on Federally backed student loans, which will double from 3.4% to 6.8% in July without congressional action. Last week, a compromise proposal pushed by the Republican-controlled House would keep the lower rate, but pay for it by raiding a fund for public health and preventive care.

"After initially voting to maintain 6.8% interest rates, House Republicans passed their own proposal, which would cut funding for preventative health care services," Cicilline said in the e-mail. "I strongly opposed this bill, and I am going to keep fighting to make sure we address student loans in a way that is both fair and responsible."

Cicilline said he plans to share these stories with House Republican leadership next week.

Editorial note: I'm horrified by the cost of college and the impact of student loan debt on families, kids graduating into this economy, and the entrepreneurial risk-taking we need from the next generation. If you've got a story to share, take a minute to click through.