Harrisburg, PA (WENY)-- For the first time in 21 years, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education is freezing tuition at its 14 state schools.

The PASSHE Board of Governors met today in Harrisburg to discuss higher education maters, including setting tuition. Tuition has been rising at PASSHE schools since 1998-1999, which was the last time the board approved a tuition freeze. That was also the first time a tuition freeze was approved. Since then, officials say rates have more than doubled for in-state residents. The vote came after a presentation and recommendation from Chancellor Dan Greenstein to freeze the tuition. He says it was tough decision to recommend a tuition freeze, but it’s an important moment for PASSHE and its students.

"I think it’s a watershed moment. I definitely hope that our colleagues across the state and the general assembly are with us in this partnership that we’re embarking on. It means a great deal to our students, and they mean a great deal to me and to us," says Chancellor Dan Greenstein.

Starting in spring 2020, the board will set a base tuition rate. Each individual school can then follow that rate, or propose their own two-year tuition rate plan that will then have to be approved by the board.