UC Advocates Support Key Bills to Enhance Student Safety and Housing Affordability

The Public Engagement and Development Committee of the University of California convened on July 13, 2025, to discuss critical legislative matters affecting the UC community. The meeting began with a focus on the importance of student involvement in shaping university policies, emphasizing that when students participate in discussions, the systems become more transparent and effective.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to updates on key state legislation relevant to the UC community. The committee reviewed several bills that the UC Student Association is advocating for, including:

1. **Senate Bill 98 (The SAFE Act)**: This bill mandates that schools notify students when immigration enforcement is present on campus, aiming to protect undocumented and mixed-status families.

2. **Senate Bill 271**: This legislation seeks to expand childcare services on college campuses, recognizing the needs of student parents.

3. **Assembly Bill 791**: Aimed at prioritizing admissions for descendants of American slavery, this bill represents a step toward restorative justice in higher education.

4. **Assembly Bill 357**: This bill focuses on coastal housing reform, facilitating the construction of affordable housing for students and staff near UC campuses.

5. **Senate Bill 323 (California Financial Aid Assurance Act)**: This legislation aims to strengthen financial aid access for undocumented and low-income students.

The committee expressed disappointment regarding the lack of support for Assembly Bill 791 and Assembly Bill 850, which would have addressed affordability issues for students. Despite these setbacks, the committee remains committed to advocating for transparency in cost of attendance and protecting students from harmful debt collection practices.

Additionally, the committee discussed the state budget advocacy efforts, which successfully mitigated a proposed 7.95% cut to the UC budget. The collaborative efforts of the UC community, including grassroots advocacy, were highlighted as instrumental in achieving a no-cut budget outcome for the year.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the importance of continued advocacy and collaboration among students, faculty, and legislators to ensure the future success of the UC system. The committee looks forward to further discussions and actions in the upcoming year to address the ongoing challenges faced by the UC community.