MARYLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

MEDIA ALERT

CONTACT: Michael Gorman, 410-841-3380 or 410-841-4266

TUITION DECREASE BILL TO BE HEARD AT COMMITTEE

WHAT: HB 42 has been introduced to lower tuition costs at public universities and community colleges will be heard at a House committee meeting. If passed, the bill will provide a 5% deduction from taxes equal to the total tuition cost at a state University or community college.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 15, 2005 – approximately 1:00PM

WHERE: Lowe House Building, 1st floor, Ways and Means Committee room

WHO: Chief sponsor Delegate Herman L. Taylor, JR (D-14)

WHY: Tuition has gone up 40% since 2002, making Maryland University Systems the 6th highest state tuition in the country. Many parents and students have to work full-time jobs, just to afford their tuition. The tuition increases are expected to continue.