Summary of HR 1271: Additional Funding for Scholarships at 1890 Institutions

Bill Number: HR 1271

Introduced: February 12, 2025

Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology

Primary Sponsor: David Scott

Cosponsors: 16 additional members of Congress

Purpose and Intent

HR 1271 aims to enhance educational opportunities for students attending 1890 institutions, which are historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) focused on agriculture and related fields. The bill seeks to provide additional funding for scholarships, thereby promoting higher education access and supporting the development of a skilled workforce in agricultural sectors.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several amendments to the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, specifically targeting scholarship funding:

1. Scholarship Definition Expansion:

   • The definition of scholarships is expanded to include programs leading to both bachelor’s and graduate degrees.

2. Funding Allocation:

   • The Secretary of Agriculture is mandated to allocate $15 million from the Commodity Credit Corporation for scholarships each fiscal year starting in 2025. This funding will remain available until fully expended.

3. Funding Availability:

   • The bill modifies the funding timeline, ensuring that funds are available for fiscal year 2020 and each fiscal year thereafter, rather than limiting it to specific years.

4. Academic Year Funding:

   • The language regarding the duration of funding is updated to allow for scholarships to be available for each academic year thereafter for which funding is allocated.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

• Students at 1890 Institutions: The primary beneficiaries will be students enrolled in 1890 institutions, who will have increased access to financial support for their education.
• 1890 Institutions: These colleges and universities will benefit from enhanced funding, potentially improving their educational offerings and resources.

Broader Implications

• Agricultural Workforce Development: By increasing scholarship funding, the bill aims to cultivate a more skilled workforce in agriculture and related fields, addressing workforce shortages and promoting diversity in these sectors.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was introduced in the House and has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture and subsequently to the Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology as of March 28, 2025. Further legislative actions will determine its progress through Congress.

Conclusion

HR 1271 represents a significant step toward supporting educational opportunities for students at 1890 institutions. By providing dedicated funding for scholarships, the bill aims to enhance access to higher education and foster a diverse agricultural workforce.