2026 Policy Agenda

The United States has long recognized higher education as one of the best pathways to opportunity, economic mobility, and an informed and engaged civic society. Yet today, the promise of higher education is increasingly out of reach for too many students. Rising costs, fragmented systems, and growing threats to racial equity in higher education are creating new barriers, particularly for the students and communities who stand to benefit most from a college degree. Ensuring that every Californian can access and succeed in higher education is not only an economic imperative but a moral one.

California has long led the nation in advancing policies that expand economic opportunity and promote racial equity through higher education. But as student demand grows and workforce needs evolve, our state must continue to act with urgency and intention to expand college access and success. From strengthening pathways between TK-12, higher education, and careers to ensuring affordability and equitable student success outcomes, the decisions California policymakers make now will shape the future of our students, communities, and state. 

In response to this moment, the Campaign for College Opportunity is proud to release our 2026 Policy Agenda: a comprehensive blueprint grounded in five integrated pillars designed to translate vision into measurable impact. This year’s agenda outlines actionable legislative, budget, and policy implementation priorities that expand college access, streamline transfer, improve affordability, intentionally serve historically excluded students, and ensure that higher education leads to meaningful economic mobility.