Policy makers in California must lead a concerted, statewide effort to increase the college-going rate of Hispanic residents if the state is to remain economically competitive, according to a report released today.

The report, “California Policy Options to Accelerate Latino Success in Higher Education,” was produced by Excelencia in Education, the Tomás Rivera Policy Institute, and the California Policy Research Center.

It suggests that, among other things, policy makers start a new scholarship program for students from low-income families and minority groups, create financial incentives for such students to remain enrolled in college, and begin a campaign to provide all new parents with an informational packet on preparing, saving, and paying for college.

In 2005 only 9 percent of Hispanic individuals age 25 and older held a bachelor’s degree or higher, according to the report. About 35 percent of California residents are Hispanic, and that demographic group is expected to grow significantly through 2040.