HACU releases 2026 Legislative Agenda

The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities has released its 2026 Legislative Agenda for the 119th Congress, outlining priorities to address higher education needs relevant to Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and Emerging HSIs, as well as PK-12 support, funding and pipeline issues leading into higher education.

The number of HSIs grew to 645 in the 2024-25 academic year, a 4.9% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects the important role HSIs play in providing educational and career opportunities for all students across the United States and supporting the nation's economic success. The highest concentrations of HSIs are found in California (179), Florida (34), Illinois (42), New Jersey (26), New Mexico (24), New York (39), Texas (113) and Puerto Rico (56).

In 2025, funding for Minority-Serving Institutions was halted and redirected, resulting in program cancellations, faculty losses, and stalled infrastructure projects. HACU is calling for restoration and expansion of federal funding.

HSIs serve as vital talent pipelines for workforce development and economic growth. HACU urges federal and state leaders to invest in HSIs, restore and expand funding, and enact policies that support their continued growth and impact. Sustained investment is essential to ensure HSIs can educate the next generation of leaders and drive national prosperity.

HACU will highlight its Legislative Agenda at the Capitol Forum on Higher Education, April 21-22, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

Click here to download HACU's Legislative Agenda

Related:

Hispanic-Serving Institutions across the nation total 645.