Jacob Nussbaum Blog 1

One policy I am interested in is the College Assistance Migrant Policy (CAMP). CAMP enables migrant workers and members of their families in the United States to attend postsecondary school. The program fully funds the first year of postsecondary education, and in some cases will cover up to five years of postsecondary schooling. Approximately 2,000 members annually receive a CAMP grant. I like this program because it helps people receive an education that otherwise probably would not. The typical person receiving a CAMP grant would work a low-skill job for low wages. CAMP gives them the opportunity to receive an education, gain higher-level skills, work a high-skill job, and receive higher wages. This betters the participant and their family because it increases their income potential and quality of life potential, giving them opportunities they never would have.

            The policy also is beneficial because of the positive consumption externality that society receives. The 2,000 annual members are increasing their education level, enabling them to become more productive, which all of society benefits from. Ideally, they would no longer need any sort of welfare benefits now, which they may have needed without the program. This takes some of the burden off of taxpayers who fund welfare programs.

            Some possible detractors from the policy are the cost and the length. College education can be quite costly. Putting 2,000 people through this program annually is sure to add up. Additionally, the question of how much is one really improved from one year of college is worthwhile. Many participants only receive a one year grant. Does this really qualify them for better jobs? Overall I like the policy because of its externalities and immediate benefits, but I can see why the policy would be too costly and not that beneficial.