H.R. 7690: Dr. William W. Sullivan TRIO Upward Bound Student Stipend Support Act

This bill, titled the Dr. William W. Sullivan TRIO Upward Bound Student Stipend Support Act, proposes amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 with the goal of increasing the stipend amounts for participants in Upward Bound projects, which are programs designed to help low-income and first-generation college students prepare for higher education.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The main points of the bill include:

1. Increased Stipend Amounts

   The bill specifies new maximum stipend amounts that can be provided to participants in Upward Bound programs:

   • For fiscal year 2027:
   • Participants could receive up to $180 per month (an increase from the current $60 per month).
   • Participants could receive up to $900 per month (an increase from the current $300 per month).
   • Participants could receive up to $120 per month (an increase from the current $40 per month).

2. Veterans Support

   The bill allows for stipends of up to $300 per month for veterans who are participating in specific projects designed for them.

3. Annual Adjustments

   The bill mandates that stipend amounts for fiscal year 2028 and beyond will be adjusted annually based on the estimated percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This means that the stipend amounts will rise each year to keep up with inflation.

Impact on Participants

The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be the students participating in Upward Bound programs, who typically come from low-income families and are at risk of not pursuing higher education. By increasing the stipend amounts, the bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens these students face, potentially making it easier for them to engage in the preparatory activities and services provided by these programs.

Additional Notes

The bill has been sponsored by Mr. Davis of Illinois and is currently referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce. The changes proposed would affect maximum stipend amounts available for fiscal years starting from 2027 and would introduce inflation adjustments to keep future stipends relevant and adequate to meet participants' needs.

Relevant Companies

None found.