The Oregon House of Representatives passed a bill that would protect Oregon’s students from unfair fees on their student loans and a bill to reduce heavy truck emissions in areas with high levels of air pollution.
A number of post-secondary schools contract with third-party financial firms to manage student financial aid funds. Unfortunately, some of these third-party firms are passing fees on to Oregon’s students in ways that are deceptive and unfair, especially since the fees have the greatest impact on the most financially vulnerable students.
House Bill 4102 prohibits public or private post-secondary schools from entering into contracts with financial firms to handle student financial aid funds unless specific requirements for fairness and transparency are met.
“Big financial firms should not be able to boost their profits by passing hidden fees on to Oregon’s students,” said Rep. Paul Holvey (D – Eugene), chair of the House Consumer Protection and Government Efficiency committee. “This bill is an important step to increase transparency, end punitive fees that are not the industry norm, and stand up for students throughout the state.”
Among other things, HB 4102 requires the clear and concise disclosure of fee schedules before students agree to use an account offered by third-party financial firms; an explanation of all methods available to students to access financial aid; and the prohibition of debit swipe fees on cards provided by third-party firms.
“Oregonians who are working hard to build a brighter future should be supported, not nickel and dimed,” said Rep. Vega Pederson (D – East Portland).
HB 4102 passed the House 33-24 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.
HOUSE PASSES BILL TO IMPROVE AIR QUALITY
A bill to reduce heavy truck emissions in areas with high levels of air pollution passed the Oregon House. HB 4107, introduced by House Speaker Tina Kotek (D-Portland) and carried on the floor by Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario) would expand the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Revolving Fund to allow businesses in areas with high air pollution levels to access the loan program. The fund is a loan program that helps organizations to purchase or convert engines to run on alternative fuels with lower emissions.
“Providing new tools for companies to reduce air pollution and diversifying our transportation sector are important for Oregon,” said Kotek, who sponsored the bill to address pollution in north Portland and around the state. “This will create jobs while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution.”
In 2013, the Legislature passed SB 583, establishing the Alternative Vehicle Revolving Fund for public entities in order to help reduce vehicle emission by financing the conversion or purchase of alternative fuel vehicles. HB 4107 expands the fund, focusing on private entities based in regions that must participate in the State Vehicle Inspection Program. This and other sideboards will ensure HB 4107 is put to use in areas with the most need for emissions reductions while keeping the revolving loan fund solvent.
