HOORAY STUDENT SENATE

In countless editorials, we have called for Student Government to do
something relevant, on a large scale. It has finally delivered with
its opposition and action against the Drug Provision of the Higher
Education Act.

The Drug Provision of the Higher Education Act basically blocks
students with drug convictions from getting financial aid. There are
ways around it, such as personal drug rehab, which costs a small
fortune, but if a student can't afford tuition, he or she certainly
can't afford to throw away money on a formality.

Three student senators from the previous term, Matt Potter, Harrison
Gilbert and T. Greg Doucette introduced the resolution to the Zach
Adams-led Student Senate, and the body passed the resolution with
flying colors.

In doing this, our Student Government is now part of a national
movement, which is made up of nearly 125 other student organizations
across the country.

This is a perfect example of how our Student Government should
advocate for students.

If the Student Senate passed this resolution on its own, without
joining a legitimate coalition, it would have meant as much to the
U.S. Congress as a lonely Technician editorial would.

Congress won't listen to one small body. But by joining such a
substantial group, which can be viewed at RaiseYourVoice.com, our
Student Government has a chance to be a part of something big that
can make a difference.

There is already pressure in Congress from Democrats to repeal the
drug provision, and this movement will help push it over the edge.

We think the drug provision is a joke, as it is discriminatory and
has the potential to ruin first or second offenders' entire lives
when they deserve a second chance -- especially if they meet all
academic requirements to get into a university.

Furthermore, the drug provision doesn't cover other crimes --
financial aid access isn't denied to convicted rapists or violent criminals.

The 86th session members of Student Government have provided an
excellent stepping stone for the newly elected 87th session members,
who officially took office Monday.

This gives our Student Government the opportunity to network with
other student organizations across the country, find out what
problems they are dealing with and work with them to solve or act
against other issues that face students nationwide.

Passing this resolution is a step in the right direction, because we
are joining forces with other organizations.

Advocacy is all about numbers -- the more entities on board, the
better chance Congress, or any governing body, will listen.

Student Government clearly supports a second chance for people who
have made mistakes, so we are willing to do the same. Go get 'em, SG.