Tax reform provides a historic opportunity for simplifying the tax code while promoting policies that improve the nation’s economy and its international competitiveness. We are disappointed that the proposal unveiled today undermines public higher education through its elimination of deductibility of state and local income and sales taxes, important tax advantages for students and families, and critical tax benefits for institutions. These changes together would make college less affordable for the vast majority of students who access higher education through public colleges and universities. We look forward to working with Congress and the administration to address these concerns.

AASCU is a Washington, D.C.-based higher education association of 400 public colleges, universities, and systems whose members share a learning- and teaching-centered culture, a historic commitment to underserved student populations, and a dedication to research and creativity that advances their regions’ economic progress and cultural development. These are institutions Delivering America’s Promise of Opportunities for All.