Thursday, October 12, 2006

Maine Students Begin to Gather 60,000 Signatures This Week To Cut Student Debt

AUGUSTA — Opportunity Maine and local student leaders announced today an aggressive signature gathering campaign aimed at putting a question to voters in November 2007 that would make school more affordable to Mainers.

If approved at the polls, legislation put forth by Opportunity Maine would allow students, both traditional and non-traditional, to receive a tax credit equal to their student loans if they agree to live and work in Maine following graduation. The credit could also be claimed by employers who agree to pay the loans of their employees.

Opportunity Maine, a group of student leaders and other supporters from all over the state, need 60,000 signatures for the question to go to Maine voters. In addition to signature gathering, the group is currently seeking volunteers to help with the signature gathering process.

“This is something that has never been done before, and, in addition to making education more affordable to students, it’s starting an important discussion on campuses about the importance of affordable education and a skilled work force,” said Anna Korsen, one of hundreds of student Opportunity Maine organizers.

“I’m very pleased that so many students have already taken the time to learn about Opportunity Maine, but it’s important that we reach as many people as possible, both on and off campus, to make this campaign a success.”

USM student Andrew Bossie, a native of Caribou and the president of Opportunity Maine, has worked with Korsen and other student leaders throughout the state to insure that the campaign serves two purposes: to pass legislation that would make school affordable to Mainers, and to start a discussion about the economic future of the state.

“Our belief is that a well-educated population is a primary factor in stimulating economic development, something important to me and other members of Opportunity Maine who want to live and work in Maine,” said Bossie. “In the past several weeks we have discussed this tuition initiative with the leaders of several campuses, the UMS Board of Trustees, several heads of Chambers of Commerce, political leadership and others in the state. All have been very enthusiastic about our legislation, and we’re ready for an amazing showing of support on Election Day.”

Once signatures are gathered, Opportunity Maine plans to roll out an informative campaign leading up to Election Day, Nov. 6, 2007.

For more information about Opportunity Maine, connect to www.opportunitymaine.org.

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