12.10.23

Hoeven Addresses ND Student Councils Conference, Holds Q&A and Encourages Student Leaders

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today addressed the North Dakota Association of Student Councils state conference, where he thanked the students for taking on leadership roles in their schools and encouraged them to continue embracing the challenges facing their generation to help build a better future for their communities, state and nation. Hoeven also held a question and answer session with the student leaders, discussing a wide range of priorities important to North Dakota and the U.S.

“North Dakota’s students are the future of our state and nation. It takes drive and determination for young people to pursue leadership roles, and we appreciate the contributions they already make to their communities,” said Hoeven. “We had a great discussion with our state’s student leaders today, including on ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their passions and build a prosperous life. This includes our efforts to expand STEM education, support our entrepreneurs and improve college affordability, especially for those students who most need financial assistance.”

Among other efforts, Hoeven discussed efforts to expand opportunities for students to gain training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and pursue careers in the critical industries of the future. To this end, the senator is:

  • Working to empower schools to expand access to STEM education, while supporting STEM education initiatives for young children.
  • Supporting greater college affordability, including through measures such as:
    • The Employer Participation in Repayment Act, which was signed into law and allows employers to provide tax-free student loan repayment up to $5,250 per year.
    • The Jumpstart Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, a bill to make Pell grants more flexible by extending eligibility to high-quality, shorter-term job training programs that meet regional workforce needs.
    • Working as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee to ensure strong support for Pell grants to get assistance to students who need it most.
  • Supporting the success of the state’s tech entrepreneurs by helping introduce bipartisan legislation like:
    • The Support Our Start-Ups Act to enable entrepreneurs to deduct more of their start-up costs and invest more into their operations sooner.
    • The Portable Benefits for Independent Workers Pilot Program Act, which would make portable benefits more accessible for entrepreneurs and provide greater certainty for them and their families.

 

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