HBCU Empowerment and Reform Act
In committee: it can still change before the session ends.
- Stage
- In committee
- Started in
- House
- Sponsor
- 1
- Latest action
- Feb 24, 2026
What it does
The HBCU Empowerment and Reform Act would amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to expand the definition of a historically Black college or university (HBCU) to include institutions established prior to November 8, 1965, provided they meet all other existing criteria. This change would potentially allow additional schools to qualify for federal HBCU designations and associated funding or programs. The bill affects colleges and universities seeking HBCU status under federal law and could increase the number of institutions eligible for targeted federal support. It was introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce for further consideration.
No official summary is available here. This one was written by AI from the bill’s text.
Where it stands
Introduced (Done)
Committee (Current step)
Floor (Not started)
Law (Not started)
What moved
Who is involved
Sponsors
The lawmakers who put their names on it, lead sponsors first.
In the news
Reporting that may mention this subject. Possible matches are labeled.
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Where it goes next
While a bill can still move, the questions are about people and money.