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STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE PASSAGE OF THE COLLEGE COST REDUCTION AND ACCESS ACT


(As Prepared for Delivery) Nelson Mandela once said that education is the most powerful weapon which you can use tochange the world. As Americans, we have understood the truth of this statement throughout our history. Fromthe beginning of our Republic, we have looked to the future and invested in future generationsof Americans. We knew that a good education for our citizens would improve lives and in ourown way change the world. We knew that when we passed the GI bill. And we were right.We knew it when the Federal Government created the student loan program. And millions ofour citizens have gone on to contribute to their communities in countless different ways.We knew it when we created Pell grants. And those who could not afford to go to college nowhad that chance. And we know it again today with the largest new investment in student aid since the GI bill.A vote for this bill is a vote for the future – because a college education will equip a newgeneration of Americans to contribute their talents, their ideas and their values to our greatland. It is a vote for opportunity for our young people – because they know that a college educationopens doors of opportunity for them. It is a vote for the hopes and dreams of parents – because all parents want their children tobe fulfilled and do well in life. And it is a vote for a strong America – with all of our citizens contributing to our economicprogress, our national security – and a better world for our children and for generations tocome. ###