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Good points, James. I went to CCRI and took advantage of the unemployment waiver, which helped me finish college when opportunity knocked (I was laid off unexpectedly). I still had to pay a long list of fees and buy books of course. Many veterans and seniors graduated with me which was great to see, and the tuition waiver made it possible for them.

The concept of helping everyone get a two year degree is great. The problem is that it shifts the cost from the student to the taxpayers, and it will compromise the quality of public college education in Rhode Island. Less than half of students who set out to get a degree ever finish college. We all remember those classmates who were here one semester and gone the next. Taxpayers can't afford to pay for everyone to "try out" college. Only those who are serious about completing their degree and working hard to achieve their potential should get a hand up.

As you mentioned, the Rhode Island jobs climate is bad enough for graduates. High taxes is a big factor in how we got here to 50th place. I fully support any efforts to enhance the quality of education for RI students. I want to see the most opportunities for the most people. But we have to consider the unintended consequences of shifting the burden to the taxpayers.

Dan Elliott

Greenwood