Washington, D.C. — Today, Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act to support foreign language and international education programs at colleges and universities by reauthorizing Title VI of the Higher Education Act. For decades, the Title VI/Fulbright-Hays programs have provided a strong foundation for international, research, and world language studies, especially in less commonly taught foreign languages that hold strategic importance for the United States.

 

Despite their proven importance, this administration has taken steps to undermine and dismantle these critical programs. The President’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget proposed zeroing out funding for international education programs at the Department of Education. The department has separately proposed eliminating the regulations governing Title VI and Fulbright-Hays, potentially allowing the administration to eliminate these programs entirely. The Higher Education Act has not been reauthorized since 2008.

 

The United States lags far behind European nations and other countries in foreign language proficiency, with approximately 10% of Americans speaking another language proficiently compared to 65% of Europeans. As demand grows for professionals with language skills and cross-cultural expertise in fields such as health, cybersecurity, and engineering, America’s competitiveness depends on our ability to communicate across languages and cultures.

 

“In Congress, I’m proud to represent world-renowned universities, colleges, and HBCUs, home to students driving cutting-edge research and innovation,” said Congresswoman Ross. “At a moment of unprecedented global competition, the United States cannot afford to fall behind in foreign language proficiency or international education. Yet the Trump administration has sought to eliminate funding for critical programs and attempted to dismantle key federal education funding entirely. It’s clear we must invest in the language and international education programs that strengthen our national security, expand opportunity, and keep America competitive.” 

 

“Keeping Americans prepared to enter the workforce must include access to foreign language education. Continuing to struggle to keep pace with other nations in language education will threaten our global leadership and our ability to equip the next generation with the proper tools to become civil leaders,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “I’m proud to work with Congresswoman Ross and Congressman Panetta on this legislation that will make critical investments in language education to ensure our nation’s continued leadership for years to come.” 

 

“Language education can broaden horizons and expand opportunities for Americans within our borders and beyond,” said Congressman Panetta. “As the co-chair of the America’s Languages Caucus, I’m proud to support the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act, which would extend language programs that are critical to building a workforce ready to compete around the world. By investing in language and international education programs today, we ensure our nation can continue leading the world and the global economy.”

 

Specifically, the Advancing International and Foreign Language Education Act would:

• Reauthorize and extend programs for international and foreign language studies, including National Resource Centers, Language Resource Centers, Undergraduate International Studies, and American Overseas Research Centers.
• Reauthorize Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships, allowing graduate students to receive stipends for studying foreign languages.
• Extend and update the International Research and Innovation program, including establishing a national database on international and foreign language education.
• Reauthorize and update programs for international business skills and education, including renaming and expanding activities in professional and technical training curricula.

 

The legislation was previously introduced by former Congressman David Price. Bill text is available here.