Friday, June 23, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Boosts Funds for Higher Ed
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today authorized a $20 million funding increase to higher education institutions, the first significant funding increase in years.
“The improvements we have made to state government are truly moving Missouri forward. Part of our success enables us this year to provide a significant funding increase to benefit Missouri’s college students and institutions,” Blunt said. “I am proud that the responsible fiscal choices we are making today hold long term advantages for our students, colleges, universities, and for Missouri’s economic strength.”
The governor signed House Bill 3 today, providing a $20 million or 2.3 percent increase for higher education institutions. The legislation increases state funding from $856,729,163 in FY 2006 to $876,718,746 for FY 2007. This includes an increase of $17.2 million for public four-year colleges and universities and $2.7 million more than last year for community colleges. This bill also includes an additional $2.5 million for student financial aid.
The increase reflects the governor’s belief that education is government’s most important responsibility. He will continue to work with the general assembly to direct state funds to education and help institutions hold down tuition costs. A bill Blunt recently signed creates a preschool through graduate school (P-20) council to take a comprehensive look at lifelong learning and to help focus education to enable students to prepare for anticipated opportunities in tomorrow’s global economy.
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