At least that’s the plan if HB 2675 passes (which is probably won’t). This bill would create a surcharge of $2,000 per student per year for colleges here in Arizona. This bill was proposed by one John Kavanagh. I won’t bother to tell you what party he’s with. You already know.
He’s got some real gems about this.
“I don’t see why these (college graduates) who are going to earn so much more (than high school graduates) can’t take out loans for $2,000. It’s a small fraction of the cost of their education. Graduating with an $8,000 loan is not the end of the world,” Kavanagh said.
Actually, that’s an extra $8,000, thank you. And if you’re working 40 hours a week earning minimum wage, and trying to go to school so you can earn more, then you’re taking in about $16,000 before taxes. $2,000 is a sizable chunk of that.
He does include an exemption for people with academic and athletic scholarships.
“Academic scholars earned the free tuition and by raising the intellectual level of the university, they create greater value for everybody. Athletic scholars have also earned it because they contribute to school spirit, and those on football and basketball teams also generate a lot of extra revenue,” Kavanagh said.
Uh-huh. I have a problem with the existence of college sports anyhow, so I’ll ignore that part. The academic part is fine, but what if you’re like me, and going back to school 20 years after you should have? I’m not likely to get an academic scholarship.
This is, frankly, just a stupid plan that hopefully won’t go anywhere. If it does, however, I’ll be seriously motivated to move to another state to continue my education. Yes, I’d have to pay out of state tuition at first, but at least I’d be in a state that’s less hostile toward education.
