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Statements of Attorney General Frosh, Senate President Ferguson, and Speaker Jones on Today’s Settlement of HBCU Litigation

BALTIMORE, MD (April 28, 2021) – Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh, Senate President Bill Ferguson and Speaker Adrienne A. Jones today released the following statement after settlement of The Coalition For Equity and Excellence in Maryland Higher Education, et al. v Maryland Higher Education Commission, et al:

“This settlement marks an historic investment in Maryland’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It will enable these valued institutions to expand their academic reach and to assist thousands of students with getting the education they deserve. I am pleased that we were able to reach this day with the cooperation of the Coalition for Equity and Excellence in Maryland Higher Education and their attorneys at Kirkland & Ellis, and the Lawyers Committee on Civil Rights Under the Law. I appreciate the commitment and leadership of Speaker Jones and Senate President Ferguson in helping achieve a settlement that will benefit current students and future generations of students.” – Attorney General Brian E. Frosh

“After more than a decade and a half of litigation, and with multiple bills passed by the General Assembly, we can finally ensure that our HBCUs receive the equitable funding that they deserve. The announcement today is a reminder of the good that we can do when we are committed to doing good for all Marylanders. Thank you to Attorney General Frosh for his unwavering leadership, and to the many members of the General Assembly who have fought to reach this historic settlement.” – Senate President Bill Ferguson

“With today’s historic settlement of the HBCU litigation, we are finally able to move forward to give every college student in Maryland the chance to succeed. I am proud that the House of Delegates, the Senate and the Legislative Black Caucus all stepped forward to lead in this monumental effort. I also want to congratulate Attorney General Brian Frosh and Mike Jones, lead plaintiff’s attorney, for working with the legislature throughout this process to get to a signed settlement agreement today. I look forward to the progress of our students and our HBCUs in the coming years.” - Speaker Adrienne A. Jones

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