NACAC Backs Federal Bill to Help Students Meet Basic Needs
NACAC has endorsed the BASIC Act, a proposal from Sen. Alex Padilla and Rep. Norma Torres that would create $1 billion in competitive grants. The grants would help colleges and universities assist students with food, housing, health care, childcare, technology, and transportation, and connect them with existing federal aid. The bill gives priority to institutions enrolling many Pell Grant recipients and sets aside funds for community colleges, HBCUs, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and other minority-serving institutions.
NACAC is backing the BASIC Act, introduced by Sen. Alex Padilla and Rep. Norma Torres. The measure would create a $1 billion competitive grant program for colleges and universities.
The grants would target students’ food, housing, health care, childcare, technology, and transportation needs, while linking eligible students to existing federal aid. Institutions enrolling many Pell Grant recipients would receive priority, and community colleges, HBCUs, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and other minority-serving institutions would get dedicated funds.
If enacted, the BASIC Act could affect students facing food, housing, and other insecurities, as well as the colleges and counselors supporting them. By funding campus services and federal aid connections, it may help more students stay enrolled and finish credentials. Community colleges and minority-serving institutions could see particular benefits, though outcomes would depend on grant design, implementation, and available federal programs.