J.C. Watts: “I rise to support the District of Columbia College Access Improvement Act of 2001. Historically black colleges and…”

“I rise to support the District of Columbia College Access Improvement Act of 2001. Historically black colleges and universities, or HBCUs as they're known, are important institutions of higher learning in America. This bill recognizes their significance by opening up tuition assistance under the D.C. College Access Act to be used for HBCUs nationwide--not just those in the immediate area. Under current law, a resident of the District of Columbia may receive $2,500 per year for tuition at private HBCUs in D.C., Virginia or Maryland. Well, for one thing, there aren't any private HBCUs in Maryland. And the other options can be pretty expensive for a student who will not be receiving other financial help. This bill expands the options for students and broadens the possibilities for residents of the District of Columbia. HBCUs have received a higher level of awareness thanks to the bi-partisan leadership of many in Congress and the White House. This legislation is yet another step toward raising the role HBCUs serve in the field of higher education. I thank the sponsors of the bill before the House today and urge my colleagues to support the D.C. College Access Improvement Act.”