Official Blog | UCGPC

Q: What were the top priorities identified by UCGPC in their system-wide survey?
A: UCGPC’s system-wide survey, which received 110 responses, identified basic needs, healthcare, and immigration/undocumented student services as their top three priorities for the upcoming year. These priorities will guide their advocacy efforts and potential sponsored legislation.

Q: What is the negotiated rulemaking process for student loans, and what are the key deadlines?
A: The negotiated rulemaking process allows for the submission of nominations to committees, such as the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) committee, to influence student loan policy. The deadline for submitting nominations for this committee is August 15, and the opportunity to submit public comments is until August 25. Brent Palmer, Director of Education for the University of California, emphasized the importance of student and financial aid administrator voices in this process.

Q: What is the Affordable Housing Bond, and how is UC involved?
A: The Affordable Housing Bond is a legislative initiative aimed at increasing affordable housing. The UC system is working to include student housing in this bond, leveraging local renter unions and student housing associations for support. SGR is launching a microsite and a UCC Campaign to build a coalition and raise awareness for the bond. While the specific details of UC’s inclusion are still being discussed, the bond is expected to be on the June 2025 ballot.

Q: What is the Elhawary bill (AB681), and what is its current status?
A: The Elhawary bill (AB681) is legislation that expands access to the California DREAM loan program. As of the meeting on July 30, 2025, the bill is currently on suspense in the Senate and is expected to move off suspense in the next month.

Q: How is UCGPC collaborating with other organizations for federal advocacy?
A: UCGPC is collaborating with FGR (Federal Governmental Relations) on federal advocacy efforts, including building coalitions with other universities and planning meetings with Congress members in early September to discuss appropriations and funding. They are also coordinating with UCSA to solicit testimonials from graduate students about the impact of federal programs to support funding requests.