Statement on FY 2024 General Appropriations Act
(BOSTON) – The Hildreth Institute released the following statement today in response to the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act:
As a research and policy center dedicated to restoring the promise of higher education as an engine of upward mobility, the Hildreth Institute commends the effort that went into finalizing the FY 2024 budget. We are encouraged to see that public higher education is an area that legislative leaders have identified as a priority this year.
In particular, we applaud the expansion of much needed student financial aid to strengthen our public higher education. The allocation of $229 million in funding for affordability initiatives, made possible by new revenue from the Fair Share surtax, paired with a significant focus on student financial aid, demonstrates a commitment to addressing long-standing issues confronting the state.
As we’ve highlighted in recent reports, the last two decades (2001-2021) saw a chronic disinvestment from our public higher education institutions and the students they serve. Continuing to build on the funding allocated for student financial aid from the Fiscal Year 2023 budget is both encouraging and necessary.
Furthermore, the allocation of $12 million for planning capacity building for free community college is a significant stride forward. This funding will enable these institutions to lay the groundwork for an expansion of a promise program, signaling a commitment to increasing affordability for our residents. Your foresight in supporting this planning initiative demonstrates your dedication to ensuring that the benefits of higher education reach every corner of our state.
We are deeply thankful for the inclusion of the Endowment Match Funding ($10,000,000 for Community Colleges and State Universities, and $10,000,000 for the University of Massachusetts system). The history of success demonstrated by the endowment match program in leveraging private donations for public higher education institutions is remarkable. This program has enabled these institutions to expand their endowments, providing crucial support for scholarships, endowed chairs, and other affordability programs. Your commitment to strengthening the foundation of our public higher education system through such innovative initiatives is truly commendable.
We wholeheartedly applaud the inclusion of tuition equity provision, which guarantees access to in-state tuition, fees, and financial aid for undocumented high school students at Massachusetts public higher education institutions. Embracing measures that promote higher education access for undocumented students not only bolsters the state's economic prosperity, but also represents a significant stride towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable higher education system.
We enthusiastically commend the incorporation of provisions for a Hunger-Free Campus in the budget. This vital initiative showcases our commitment to addressing food insecurity among students in higher education. By establishing resources and support systems to ensure that no student goes hungry, we are not only investing in their well-being but also fortifying the foundation of a more equitable and nurturing educational environment. This endeavor resonates deeply with our shared values of compassion, inclusivity, and the pursuit of a brighter future for all.
As we move forward, we are encouraged by this government’s focus on promoting affordability, inclusivity, and success in higher education, ensuring that all individuals have access to the transformative opportunities it offers.
Our public college graduates are the future of Massachusetts and we believe the state’s commitment to an affordable, high-quality public education should not end at grade 12. The Hildreth Institute remains committed to returning public higher education to a reliable engine for economic mobility and we are excited by what we are seeing and hearing from leaders across the state.