If signed by governor, U would receive additional $149 million
May 22, 2007
Rick Moore
On the final day of the 2007 session Monday, the Minnesota State Legislature passed a higher education spending bill that would provide an increase in funding of about $149 million for the University of Minnesota for the 2008-09 biennium.
The bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both bodies--by a vote of 65-0 in the Senate and 127-7 in the House. It's now up to Gov. Tim Pawlenty to either sign the bill or veto all or parts of it.
"For the last several years, the University has been focused on reforms to improve the quality of education and the impact of our research and public responsibilities on Minnesota's economy and quality of life," President Bob Bruininks said in a statement Monday afternoon. "The funding bill passed today will ensure we can continue on that path to become one of the best public research universities in the world."
The University had requested $182.3 million in new state funding for the biennium. The increase approved Monday by the legislature represents about 82 percent of the U's request. The additional state support will be used to enhance the University's core mission and competitive position, and invest in measures that help "create Minnesota's future."
Posted by john5091 at May 23, 2007 10:21 AM