This is a non-exhaustive list of priorities we have advocated for that have resulted in real changes. Note that many of these issues had multiple groups advocating for them- we do not claim sole credit for these, but rather present them here as an example of what can be accomplished when graduate students speak up.
Federal Affairs
Against Proposed Graduate Student Tax in 2017 Tax Cuts
In November 2017, EAB deployed a team to meet with Senate offices and convey our opposition to the income tax on graduate tuition waivers proposed in the House version of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. EAB members published articles in national media to call attention to the adverse consequences of the proposed tax law. The provision was eventually dropped.
Amicus Brief in MIT-Harvard Lawsuit against ICE on International Student Ban
In 2020, during COVID-19 lockdown, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced that international students not taking in-person courses were required to leave the US or were eligible for deportation. Shortly after, MIT and Harvard filed a joint lawsuit against ICE. EAB led the drafting of an amicus brief on behalf of university student governments for the court’s consideration, with pro bono counsel from Clifford Chance US LLP and Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. ICE reversed the ruling before the case was seen by the judge.
Creation of the GRAD Caucus in US House of Representatives
From 2020 to 2022, EAB led the efforts with Carnegie Mellon University’s Graduate Student Assembly to assemble co-chairs and launch the Graduate Research and Development (GRAD) Caucus in the House. The co-chairs at launch were Reps. Mike Doyle, Gus Bilirakis, Zoe Lofgren, and Stephanie Bice. EAB helped organize an in-person launch event on July 13, 2022. US Representatives, EAB Chair, and CMU GSA President spoke at the event.
State and Local Affairs
Increase On-campus Graduate Housing
In 2017, working with Cambridge City Council, EAB played a critical role in securing more graduate student housing as part of the rezoning plan of Volpe Transportation Center. MIT committed to add 950 new graduate student beds on campus.
Remove Obstacles for Multi-user All-gender Restrooms
In 2021, EAB submitted a proposal to the MA state plumbing board regarding the State Plumbing Code to more broadly allow for single-user and multi-user all-gender restrooms. In December 2023, the MA State Plumbing Code was updated to allow multi-user all-gender restrooms to satisfy minimum fixture requirements.