When State Rep. Jennifer O’Mara (165) left West Chester University in 2011, she was the first in her family to earn a college diploma, earning a dual degree in history and education.

She also left college with a $36,000 debt, the average college debt in Pennsylvania, writes John Baer for inquirer.com.

Now, 29, she’s a freshman state House member, a Democrat in the 165^th District, covering Marple, Radnor, Springfield and Morton.

And she’s intent on easing the way for others who need educational loans.

She’s prime mover of a new bipartisan House Student Debt Caucus because, she argues, the legislature needs to get aggressive and have a greater focus on student debt.

It’s a national problem, $1.5 trillion worth, with Pennsylvania at its center.

“There aren’t many bipartisan issues in Harrisburg,” O’Mara says.  “When I found one, I decided to run with it.”

The plan is to improve financial literacy in high schools and colleges, go hard at predatory lenders and at cost-drivers of college fees and tuition.

And to make recommendations to the full House by the end of the year. A series of round table talks with students is also planned this fall.

Read more about O’Mara’s efforts here.

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