Press Releases

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson issued the following statement after a signing ceremony for the bipartisan, bicameral FUTURE Act, which permanently funds HBCUs and MSIs:

"I was honored today to participate in the bill signing ceremony for the FUTURE Act, a measure that permanently guarantees more than $250 million in mandatory funding per year for the nation's historically black colleges and universities and other minority-serving institutions. The legislation, which has been approved by the Senate, also simplifies the federal student aid applications process, which means more students will be able to pursue a college education and repay their loans.

"The FUTURE Act will enable HBCUs and MSIs to build on their storied legacies of providing and expanding opportunities for students of color and low-income students who might otherwise find higher education beyond their reach. In addition to offering top-notch educations that prepare students to successfully compete with the best in their chosen fields, these institutions also provide nurturing environments in which self-confidence is boosted and lifelong friendships are formed.

"This legislation, which will soon head to the White House to be signed into law, is an all-too-rare example of the immeasurable good that lawmakers on Capitol Hill can achieve when members of both chambers and both parties work together. As a proud HBCU graduate, I am grateful that we were able to find common ground on such a monumental issue and hopeful that we can do so again."