Ranking Member Scott Statement on HBCU Funding Announcement

Ranking Member Scott Statement on HBCU Funding Announcement

WASHINGTON - Ranking Member Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (VA-03), House Committee on Education and Workforce, released the following statement after the Department of Education announced it is cutting millions of dollars intended for minority-serving institutions, teacher preparation, magnet schools and other education programs to pay for a one-time allocation of $495 million to Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal Colleges and Universities.

"Historically Black Colleges and Universities are chronically under-funded and under-resourced. And while I appreciate any influx in funding to HBCUs, it should not come at the expense of funding Minority Serving Institutions who are also in need of this funding.

"This one-time allocation will likely not offset the funding shortfall HBCUs can expect as a result of the Republicans' 'Big Ugly Law' which cuts Parent PLUS Loans, Graduate PLUS loans, and Pell Grants. Moreover, this one-time investment will not help HBCUs, who can expect less revenue, and will not help HBCU alumni whose student loan payments which are also expected to increase because of Republicans' 'Big Ugly Law.' Lastly, to add insult to injury, the Department's announcement is a one-time investment, while Republicans' cuts to the student aid program are permanent."

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