Panel backs bill restoring Hampton University's land-grant status and creating a restoration fund

The Senate Higher Education Subcommittee voted to recommend SB 274, legislation intended to restore Hampton University's designation as a land-grant institution and to establish a special restoration fund.

Senator Pillion opened with a historical account: Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute (now Hampton University) was founded in 1868 and was designated a land-grant institution in 1872 under the Morrill Act. The sponsor said federal funding was later reallocated and Hampton's designation was removed in the early 20th century; he argued the bill is intended to "complete the historical record" and expand opportunities for Hampton without taking funding away from other institutions.

The bill would restore Hampton University's land-grant designation and create a restoration fund to support the institution's research, public-health efforts, workforce development and other land-grant missions. President Darryl Williams of Hampton addressed the committee and asked for favorable consideration. Supporters from private non-profit college representatives also spoke in favor.

Questions from committee members centered on whether the change would affect funding for Virginia State University or Virginia Tech; the sponsor said the bill "simply opens up opportunities for Hampton University" and does not remove active funding from other institutions. The subcommittee moved and seconded the bill and recommended reporting to the full committee.