As the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act [TCJA] moves to the U.S. Senate for debate, Student Body President Jackie Gonzalez, a fourth-year studying political science, released a statement with the Graduate Student Association regarding the negative effects the bill could have on higher education if the bill is passed.

The bill, also referred to as H.R.1, was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on Nov. 16.

“This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses,” Gonzalez said in the statement. “However, there are many provisions within H.R.1 that, if implemented, will make achieving a quality college education significantly more expensive for students and their families and present a devastating, long-lasting impact on all institutions of higher education.”

The statement not only explains the negative impacts to the student population, but also encourages students to call congressional members and express their concerns. A list of senators and representatives is given in the statement.  

“Now is the time to act to save higher education here at NC State and across our country,” Gonzalez said in the statement. “We know we will be taking some study breaks over the next few weeks to call our representatives and express my concerns– we ask that you do the same.”

The full statement is attached to this article.