"Access to higher education has always been the way out of poverty for millions of children of immigrants and minority parents," said University of Rhode Island President Robert L. Carothers. "They should not be excluded from higher education, the vehicle by which they can rise above their surroundings."

Carothers asked Rhode Island's congressional delegation to work to repeal the drug provision, which was added to the Higher Education Act in 1998. Since that time, the U.S. Department of Education said about 92,841 students have been denied financial aid because of past drug offenses.

Carothers said the law has a disproportionate impact on low-income and minority students, who are convicted at a higher rate than white drug offenders. He added that the law penalizes people who are trying to better themselves through education.

Student leaders also support repealing the law. "If you're rich, and your parents can afford a good lawyer, or you don't need financial aid, this ban doesn't affect you," said Tom Angell, a member of Students for Sensible Drug Policy and the Coalition for Higher Education Act Reform.

Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) has introduced legislation to repeal the drug provision. The measure, which is currently in committee, may not pass in this legislative session.

"It's an uphill battle," said Peter Kovar, a spokesman for Frank. "The current leadership of the House does not support the change."

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