July 11, 2019 

HACU Western Regional Office update on California budget and college affordability  

 

California Budget to make college affordable

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a $214.8 billion budget on June 27, 2019, making it the state’s largest budget to date. The 2019-2020 budget makes additional investments to make college more accessible and affordable.

The budget included additional funding for all three public segments of education, including cost of living allowances and enrollment growth. The budget also included an additional 41,000 competitive Cal Grant awards, which generally go to nontraditional students to pay for college tuition. 

“HACU applauds the Governor for making additional investments in historically underserved groups in higher education, including funding to address homeless and housing insecurity issues for formerly incarcerated individuals, foster youth, and the undocumented student population,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “HACU is pleased that there is some new funding to increase the number of available competitive awards, providing funding for a Teacher Service Credit Scholarship Program, and maintaining the award for students who choose the private, nonprofit sector".

HACU will continue to advocate for additional funding for higher education segments and financial aid investments in future budget years. HACU continues to provide public support for 14 bills as they make their way through the legislative process. 

For additional information on HACU budget statements, financial aid reform proposal, copies of legislative support letters, as well as legislation being tracked, visit HACU Advocacy Center at https://hacuadvocates.net/CA

State Superintendent's College Affordability Work Group

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities is among the participants of California Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond’s transition work group. Erica Romero assistant vice president for state advocacy has represented HACU in several meetings held to discuss short- and long-term goals for college affordability in the state of California. After the College Affordability Transition Working Group completes its series of meetings, they will provide its recommendations to the Superintendent.

 (Center front row) Erica Romero, assistant vice president for state advocacy of HACU with Lupita Cortez Alcalá, chief deputy superintendent of public instruction, and Superintendent Tony Thurmond’s College Affordability Transition Team Working Group.