AL HJR47

Creates a bicameral Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Legislative Caucus to protect, promote, and support HBCU interests and students in Alabama

Alabama has 14 HBCUs (the highest number in any state), including 6 private institutions and 8 public institutions, founded between 1867 and 1975

Caucus guiding principles include advocating for fair funding, partnering with institutions and industries, informing lawmakers about HBCU challenges, and promoting HBCUs' economic value

Membership open to any Alabama Senator or Representative interested in high-quality education at HBCUs; Lieutenant Governor will convene the first meeting after registration with the Secretary of State

Nationally, HBCUs generate $16.9 billion annually in economic impact, award over 20% of undergraduate degrees for Black Americans, and support 134,000 jobs