07.29.20

Durbin Discusses COVID-19 Relief With Chicago State University President

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke by phone with Chicago State University President Z Scott about the next federal coronavirus relief bill. During the call, Durbin discussed key provisions in the CARES Act that offered $14 billion in funding through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund to institutions of higher education and spoke about the barriers Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos created to prevent undocumented and low-income students from receiving the emergency student aid grants they are eligible for through the CARES Act. 

Durbin also discussed his support of the Coronavirus Child Care and Education Relief Act, which would invest $430 billion in the education sector, $10 billion for Minority Serving Institutions—including Predominantly Black Institutions like Chicago State University, and provide $450 million for TRIO programs to support low-income, first generation, and students of color.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruptions to college students.  With the upcoming school year just weeks away, it’s more important than ever that Congress provide vital resources to ensure students can receive a quality education, safely,” said Durbin. “It was great to speak with Chicago State University President Scott about the assistance the federal government can offer to universities and their students during this monumental public health and economic crisis.”

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