The HBCU Empowerment and Reform Act, introduced in February 2026, modifies the federal definition of a historically Black college or university (HBCU) by changing the establishment date requirement from 1964 to November 8, 1965. This change would allow schools founded between 1964 and November 1965 to qualify as HBCUs if they meet all other eligibility criteria, potentially expanding federal funding and support to additional institutions. The bill affects HBCUs and schools that were established during this newly eligible period, as well as the students who attend them. The legislation amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 and was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce, though no specific funding amounts or implementation timeline are detailed in the available text.
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