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A Promise of Equity: Designing a Debt-Free Higher Education Program That Works for Everyone
As Massachusetts considers several proposals to make college tuition-and-fee-free or debt-free, this paper looks at how different design elements of such a guarantee could affect access and affordability for students from less wealthy families, students of color, and immigrant students in Massachusetts.
A Chilly Reception: Proposed Immigration Rule Creates Chilling Effect for New Immigrants and Current Citizens
The Trump Administration announced on October 10 a proposal that would fundamentally change our country’s approach to immigration. This proposal would change what is known as the “public charge” immigration rule, which could make it very difficult for many immigrants to receive the Green Cards or visas that allow them to enter or stay in this country legally.
Massachusetts Poverty Rate Flat, Median Income Growth Slowed in 2017
The U.S. Census Bureau recently released new data from its American Community Survey (ACS), allowing us to see how Massachusetts residents fared economically last year. Although the state has made significant gains in poverty reduction and income growth in recent years, especially since the recession, year-over-year progress began to slow in 2017. Compared to 2016, the poverty rate was essentially flat, and median household income grew at a much slower pace.
