Critics Say Obama's Education Plans Are Conflicting

Tuesday night’s State of the Union has been hotly debated over the past two days as Republicans and Democrats in Washington argue over how the President’s plans will affect the middle class. Obama has promised to make higher education more affordable, but many argue that his tax reforms will make it unattainable for many middle class families.

Free Community College

Obama is proposing a scheme that would allow students who achieve a certain level to attend two years of community college in their home state free of charge. In doing this, the President hopes to offer all students the chance to continue their education beyond high school, thus boosting graduation rates. While the idea has been well received by most of his own party, Republicans are concerned with how the government will afford to put so many people through school.

529 Plans Lose Tax Breaks

On the other hand, Obama is also suggesting eliminating the tax breaks associated with 529 college savings accounts. Currently, families can save and invest money within a 529 account and later withdraw the money to pay college tuition without suffering any tax penalties. However, in order to streamline the US tax system, Obama is suggesting doing away with those benefits and taxing the funds once they are withdrawn.

Many are criticizing the President’s conflicting statements saying that on one hand he is looking to make education more affordable, but on the other he is penalizing people who save for it. Obama says the 529 plans generally only benefit wealthy families, but critics say the scheme will push middle class families into sending their children to community college rather than to another four year school.