U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio will be on campus Monday, May 4, to talk about budget proposals that could dramatically reduce student financial aid.

DeFazio, a Democrat representing Oregon’s 4th District, will be at the Many Nations Longhouse at 1 p.m. Students, faculty and staff are invited to attend the event and engage in a discussion about the budget proposals.

Appearing with DeFazio will be members of the UO and Lane Community College financial aid offices and current UO and LCC students. Roger Thompson, the UO’s vice president for enrollment management, will facilitate the panel discussion.

A budget resolution currently under consideration in the House would eliminate all mandatory funding for Pell Grants, eliminate in-school subsidies for undergraduate Stafford loans and eliminate the Public Sector Loan Forgiveness Program. DeFazio has spoken out against the resolution.

The House could vote on the resolution as early as Friday, May 1.

UO students receive approximately $170 million a year in federal student aid, and almost 70 percent of Oregon residents attending the UO get some form of financial aid. Most of that aid comes from federal sources.

The Monday event is intended to open a discussion on the funding issues and will include time to hear from audience members. Those planning to attend are asked to sign in here so enough light refreshments can be provided.