The Joint Committee on Higher Education convened on July 18, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at improving access to higher education for foster youth in Massachusetts. The meeting highlighted a proposed act that seeks to expand tuition and fee waivers for adopted foster children aged 14 to 31.

Key testimony was provided by representatives from organizations that support transition-age youth and those with lived experiences in foster care. They emphasized the need for legislation that clarifies the use of financial aid and waivers for any course offered by state institutions. This legislation aims to ensure that full tuition waivers are granted to young adults in the custody of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or under legal guardianship, as well as to children adopted from DCF.

The testimony underscored the significant barriers that foster youth face in pursuing higher education, citing a high school graduation rate of only around 60 percent for this group. Furthermore, it was noted that only 2 to 6 percent of former foster youth complete a degree from a two-year college, and less than 5 percent graduate from a four-year institution. These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved educational support throughout their K-12 journey and beyond.

The speakers stressed that financial difficulties, the necessity to work, and housing concerns are major obstacles preventing former foster youth from continuing their education. They argued that obtaining a higher education degree is crucial for enhancing overall stability and well-being, impacting employment, housing, health, and mental health.

In conclusion, the committee members were urged to support the proposed legislation, which aims to eliminate barriers to education for foster youth and ensure they can achieve their educational goals. The act is seen as a vital step in fulfilling the state's responsibility to this vulnerable population.