Gov. Scott Walker signs college affordability bills

MADISON — Gov. Scott Walker has signed a series of bills aimed at college affordability.

The four bills increase grants for technical college students; create grants to help two-year students deal with financial emergencies; require the Department of Workforce Development to coordinate internships with colleges and employers; and require colleges to provide students annual information about their debt levels.

The state Senate didn't give approval to another of Walker's college affordability proposals that would have lifted the $2,500 cap on tax-deductible student loan interest.

Democrats have criticized the package as merely campaign talking points and say it does little to address student debt.

Walker signed the bills Monday during stops at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.