Expressing support for increasing the number of Latino students and young professionals entering careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
This resolution expresses congressional support for increasing the number of Latino students and young professionals entering STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. It frames Latino participation in STEM as a pathway to economic empowerment and national competitiveness, notes current underrepresentation and barriers to access (such as limited access to advanced coursework and financial aid), and calls for greater federal support for initiatives to boost Latino participation in STEM—especially in engineering. It also emphasizes the important role of Hispanic-serving institutions and other higher education institutions in achieving this goal. As a House Resolution, it conveys Congress’s intent and recommendation rather than creating new law or funding. It serves as a positions statement that could guide future legislation or funding proposals and signals bipartisan or cross-chamber interest in expanding Latino participation in STEM.
Key Points
- 1The resolution sets a goal to increase Latino individuals in STEM to promote economic empowerment and strengthen the U.S. economy.
- 2It acknowledges that Latinos are underrepresented in STEM relative to their share of the population and notes the potential negative impact on industries and national competitiveness unless representation improves.
- 3It cites data on Latino population growth, higher education enrollment, and the increasing share of Latinos in the labor force, as context for why expanding Latino STEM participation matters.
- 4It highlights that STEM careers offer higher wages and greater economic mobility, underscoring the appeal and rationale for expanding Latino participation.
- 5It calls for increased federal support for initiatives aimed at boosting Latino students’ pursuit of STEM education and career paths, with a particular emphasis on engineering, and notes the important role of Hispanic-serving institutions and other higher education institutions in achieving this goal.
- 6It recognizes barriers faced by Latino students—such as gaps in college preparation, access to advanced coursework, college counseling, and financial aid—and frames addressing these barriers as part of the strategy to widen participation.