Proposed BASIC Act Aims to Provide $1 Billion Annually to Colleges for Student Support Services

Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Rep. Norma Torres (D-CA) introduced the Basic Assistance for Students in College (BASIC) Act, which would authorize $1 billion annually from fiscal 2027 through 2033. This funding would help colleges address students' essential needs, including food, housing, childcare, health care, transportation, and technology.