Congressman Cole Votes for TRIO and GEAR-UP Funds in Spending Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Cole announced today that both TRIO and GEAR UP are funded in the final version of the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2006 that passed in the House today. In this legislation, TRIO is funded at $836.54 million, which is $467 million above President's budget request. GEAR UP is funded at $306.48 million, which is $306.48 million above President's budget request.

"I am very pleased both of these important programs are set to continue to receive funding next year. Both of these programs have made a significant impact in lives of Oklahoma students. I will continue to fight for these programs in the years to come," Congressman Cole said.

Earlier this year, the President's budget proposed cutting funding for this education program that helps underprivileged students attend college. Congressman Cole led a bi-partisan effort to ensure the funding was not eliminated. He sent a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Labor, HHS and Education Subcommittee, that was signed by 167 members, urging them to continue funding these programs.

"TRIO is a vital resource for students in Oklahoma. It provides them with opportunities to purse higher education, opportunities that otherwise they may not have," Congressman Cole said.

In Oklahoma's Fourth Congressional District, there are 18 TRIO programs that have served almost 6,000 students

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