Reps. Adams and Walker Introduce the FUTURE Act

Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Alma S. Adams (NC-12) and Mark Walker (NC-6) introduced the bipartisan Fostering Undergraduate Talent by Unlocking Resources for Education (FUTURE) Act to ensure continued funding for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). A companion bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Doug Jones (D-AL) and Tim Scott (R-SC).

The FUTURE Act reauthorizes crucial mandatory funding for MSIs within Title III of the Higher Education Act for the next two fiscal years. Without action, this funding would expire at the end of FY 2019. MSIs serve nearly four million students, and disproportionately enroll low-income students. The bill would sustain mandatory funding at current levels, ensuring MSIs can finance capital improvements, student services, and faculty and curriculum development.

"MSIs educate more than one-quarter of all undergraduate students in America but have historically been at a disadvantage when it comes to federal resources. As a two-time HBCU graduate and former HBCU professor, I know firsthand how valuable HBCUs and all Minority-Serving Institutions are. That's why I founded the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus, and why this legislation is so important," said Congresswoman Adams. "By ensuring we are funding HBCUs and other MSIs, we are allowing these vital institutions to continue their work in providing opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds."

"HBCUs are an integral part of America's higher education system and have had a profound impact on North Carolina, including my own family, opening the door to my wife Kelly's success as a nurse practitioner. I am proud to help lead this effort and continue building on our success advocating for minority-serving institutions by expanding our commitment to HBCUs and the nearly 300,000 students they serve," said Congressman Walker. "When we create paths for students to be more innovative and engaged, we keep colleges and universities on the path to success, creating a more promising future for all."

HBCUs have taught and nurtured generations of leaders in multiple fields and contribute $15 billion annually to our national economy. HBCUs and other Minority-Serving Institutions have provided pathways of opportunities for millions of Americans, many of whom are first generation college students, and the FUTURE Act will ensure they continue to fill this vital role.