Kentucky State University President applauds passage of The FUTURE Act by the U.S. House of Representatives
The United State House of Representatives passed H.R 2486, the Fostering Undergraduate Talent by Unlocking Resources for Education (FUTURE) Act, Tuesday, September 17, to extend important mandatory funding in Title III, Part F of the Higher Education Act of 1965 until Fiscal Year 2021. This legislation authorizes funding critical to the mission and current operations of Kentucky State University.
Kentucky State University President M. Christopher Brown II stated, “I’m thankful for the timely work of the entire U.S. House of Representatives. Our district representative, Congressman Andy Barr made himself and his staff available for multiple meetings on the importance passing the FUTURE Act would have on Frankfort’s university. Available records suggest this polyonymous legislation has accounted for approximately $40 million in funding to vital institutional activities since it’s inception. Our students, faculty, staff, alumni, stakeholders, and community have been affirmed by the People’s House. We now look to the leadership of our commonwealth’s own Senator Mitch McConnell to ratify the values expressed by President Donald Trump when he spoke to the nation’s black college leaders in a private lunch last week.”
According to the official White House read out, President Trump celebrated, “For more than 180 years, HBCUs have strengthened our country and called America to greatness.” He added, “This nation owes a profound and enduring debt of gratitude to its HBCUs.”
Detailing his administration’s historic financial support to this institutional sector, President Trump concluded, “Together, we will ensure that HBCUs continue to thrive and prosper and flourish for the countless generations to come.”
The funding in this legislation helps eligible institutions enhance fiscal stability; strengthen academic programming, particularly in STEM fields and other high-demand careers; and improve overall institution management.
The $255 million FUTURE Act now proceeds to the United States Senate. All funding will expire at the end of the month without passage by the U.S. Senate.