To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for additional uses of funds for grants to strengthen historically Black colleges and universities, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Adams, Alma S. [D-NC-12]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 7, 2025
Bottom line
This bill seeks to bolster arts and cultural programs at HBCUs by allowing federal grant funds to be used for a wider range of activities, aiming to address historical underfunding and promote diversity in the arts.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to expand the permissible uses of funds for grants aimed at strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Specifically, it adds new categories of eligible activities focused on supporting arts, arts education, and cultural programs at these institutions, including financial aid for students, outreach, wraparound services, protection of Black art collections, and apprenticeship opportunities.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for rectifying the historical underfunding of HBCUs, particularly in their arts and cultural programs, which are vital for preserving Black art and fostering a diverse generation of art professionals. They contend that expanding eligible uses of funds will enable HBCUs to better support students of color in the arts, strengthen their cultural departments, and ensure the continued recognition and study of Black artists.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while the intent to support HBCUs and the arts is laudable, expanding the uses of existing funds without a corresponding increase in appropriations could dilute the impact of grants on other critical areas of HBCU operations. Some might also contend that the bill could lead to a reallocation of resources away from STEM or other academic fields, potentially creating new funding shortfalls in those areas if overall funding levels remain stagnant.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and easy understanding of its provisions.
Section 2, paragraphs (1) and (2)
Expansion of Eligible Uses for HBCU Strengthening Grants to Include Arts and Culture
This provision amends Section 323(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to allow grants for strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to be used for a broader range of activities related to arts, arts education, and cultural programs. These new uses include providing financial aid to students, establishing outreach programs, offering comprehensive support services like mentorship and career advising, maintaining Black art collections, and creating paid apprenticeship opportunities through partnerships with nonprofit arts organizations. It also defines 'arts' and allows for partnerships with the National Endowment for the Arts.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that these expanded uses directly address the historical underfunding of HBCU arts programs and the broader lack of diversity in the arts sector. They believe that by allowing grants to cover these specific activities, HBCUs can better cultivate diverse talent, preserve cultural heritage, and provide students with essential skills and opportunities in the arts.
Critics contend
Opponents might express concern that without additional funding, this expansion could lead to a dilution of resources for other vital HBCU programs, such as STEM fields or general institutional capacity building, which are also critical for student success and institutional stability. They might argue that a more targeted approach with dedicated new funding for arts programs would be more effective.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the need to support HBCU arts and cultural programs with the reality of finite funding. The tension lies in whether expanding eligible uses for existing grants will genuinely strengthen these programs or merely reallocate resources, potentially at the expense of other important institutional priorities.