WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 936

WEST Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Tom Cotton

Bill S 936 allocates $20M to boost endowments for Massachusetts public colleges, enhancing resources for students and faculty through increased private fundraising.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 936

Summary of Bill S 936: An Act Relative to the Endowment Match Program

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 936 aims to enhance the financial support for public institutions of higher education in Massachusetts by amending the existing endowment match program. The primary intent is to encourage private fundraising efforts by these institutions, thereby increasing their endowments and capital resources.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes several significant changes to Section 15E of Chapter 15A of the General Laws:

  • Funding Commitment: The bill mandates that not less than $20,000,000 be allocated to support the implementation of the endowment match program.
  • Allocation of Funds:
    • University of Massachusetts: $10,000,000
    • State Universities: $5,000,000
    • Community Colleges: $5,000,000
  • Unused Funds: If any allocated funds for community colleges are not utilized, those funds will be redirected to state universities. Similarly, any unused funds from state universities will be made available to the University of Massachusetts.
  • Implementation Oversight: The Board of Higher Education is tasked with ensuring that all institutions have an equitable opportunity to secure matching funds.

Affected Parties

The bill primarily impacts:
- Public Institutions of Higher Education in Massachusetts, including:
- The University of Massachusetts system
- State universities
- Community colleges
- Students and Faculty at these institutions may benefit from enhanced resources and funding for programs and facilities.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • Legislative Actions:
    • The bill was referred to the Committee on Higher Education on the same day it was introduced.
    • A hearing is scheduled for September 11, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-1.
    • On November 12, 2025, the bill was accompanied by a new draft, referenced as S2702.

Related Legislation

  • This bill is related to Senate Docket No. 1258, which it replaces, and is similar to Senate Bill No. 832 filed in the previous legislative session (2023-2024).

Conclusion

Bill S 936 represents a significant investment in the future of public higher education in Massachusetts, aiming to bolster fundraising efforts and enhance the financial stability of these institutions. By ensuring a structured allocation of funds, the bill seeks to create a more equitable environment for all public colleges and universities in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.