The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 6472, the Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act, a bill that aims to help students from U.S. territories access higher education by allowing them to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities throughout the 50 states.
Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) of the House Education and Workforce Committee commented on the bill’s passage: “Today marks another strong step toward helping more young Americans pursue their dreams of higher education,” said Chairman Walberg. “Students in U.S. territories face unique challenges that make it harder to attend college or pursue credentialing opportunities. The Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act provides residents of U.S. territories with in-state tuition at public universities across the 50 states—helping to lower costs so more students can acquire degrees and high-quality credentials. I commend Rep. Moylan for sponsoring this bill to strengthen territorial economies, support American interests in the Indo-Pacific, and help more students chase the American Dream.”
Congressman James Moylan (R-GU), who sponsored the legislation, said: “For too long, students from Guam and our fellow U.S. territories have faced unfair financial barriers simply because of where they call home. Today, the House took historic action to level the playing field. The Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act ensures our students can pursue their education and career goals at public institutions across the country without being penalized with out-of-state tuition. This is about opportunity, economic growth, and reaffirming that the American Dream includes the territories.”
H.R. 6472 was authored by Representative Moylan and specifically provides residents of U.S. territories with access to in-state tuition rates at public institutions.
The House Education and Workforce Committee oversees federal programs related to education, labor, health, and workforce development as described on its official website. The committee also shapes policy concerning student loans and worker protections according to information provided on its website. In addition, it operates within the legislative branch with authority over matters related to education and labor (source).
