Olszewski, Moylan Introduce Bipartisan Effort to Fast-Track College Completion and Lower Costs

(Washington, DC) - Today, Congressman Johnny Olszewski (D-MD) and Representative James Moylan (R-Guam) introduced bipartisan legislation to lower college costs and increase graduation rates nationwide. The Fast Track To and Through College Act would establish a state grant program to help more students earn college and credential credits while still in high school - reducing the time and cost required to complete postsecondary education.

The fast-track grant program would expand access to Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual-enrollment courses, enabling students to begin earning college credits earlier. The legislation would also require public colleges and universities to accept credits earned through these programs, streamlining the transfer process and preventing students from paying twice for the same coursework.

"Americans are asking policymakers to do everything we can to lower costs, and the soaring price of education is no exception," said Congressman Olszewski, a first-generation college graduate. "I'm proud to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to help more students earn college credits while still in high school - cutting the cost of college and certifications, speeding time to degree, and helping young people enter the workforce sooner."

"For families on Guam and across the country, the cost of college can be the difference between opportunity and debt," said Congressman Moylan. "This bipartisan bill helps students earn college credits earlier, lowers the overall cost of a degree, and moves young people into the workforce faster. It's a commonsense solution that saves families money while strengthening our future workforce."

The bill is the companion to bipartisan legislation introduced last month by U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Todd Young (R-IN) in their respective chambers. Specifically, the Fast Track To and Through College Act would:

The legislation is endorsed by the Association for Career and Technical Education as well as the Maryland Association of Community Colleges.

"ACTE is proud to support the Fast Track to and Through College Act, which would expand access to high-quality dual enrollment opportunities and allow more students to earn college credit while still in high school," said LeAnn Curry, ACTE Executive Director. "By incentivizing states to scale these pathways, this legislation will help lower costs for learners and improve outcomes for students pursuing postsecondary education. ACTE appreciates Reps. Olszewski and Moylan for their leadership in advancing this important issue."

"Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit are an evidence-based strategy that reduces time to degree and helps more students achieve their academic and career goals," said Dr. Brad Phillips, Executive Director, MACC. "This supports local, state, and national economies by preparing learners sooner to enter the workforce. The Fast Track to and Through College Act would provide the support needed to expand dual enrollment, particularly for those who are currently unable to participate. This much-needed legislation would further catalyze the educational innovations our nation needs now."