WMU Funding Update - 2008
9/14/2007
On September 6, the Michigan Senate passed their version of the 2007-08 higher education funding bill, sensibly funding ALL 15 public universities in ONE consolidated budget bill. Just a couple of weeks ago the Michigan House of Representatives, on the recommendation of the Governor but on a very close vote, passed two higher education budget bills, one for MSU, U of M, and Wayne State University, and a separate budget bill for the other state universities, including WMU. We have been very opposed to the Governor's recommendation and the action by the Michigan House of Representatives and have been working with the legislature to defeat this proposal.
Highlighting his deep dedication and appreciation for the diversity of higher education institutions throughout Michigan, the single budget bill received firm support from the Chairman of the Senate Sub-committee on Higher Education, Senator Tony Stamas (R-MIdland). (Please take a moment to send Senator Stamas a quick e-mail to thank him for his support). The legislation will now move to a conference committee, where final allocations for universities and programs will be decided, the final step in writing the higher education budget for next year.
We firmly believe that our Bronco alumni's outspoken opposition to the two funding bills played a key role in its defeat in the State Senate. However, this issue is still very much alive in the state legislature. We need our alumni to continue their vocal opposition to this scheme and ask their legislators to impress upon their leadership that two separate budget bills for higher education is a bad idea, it is unwise and unfair. Senator Majority Leader Mike Bishop has expressed his support for one appropriation bill. But it is particularly important that House Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) hear from WMU alumni. Please take a moment to call Representative Dillon's office at (517) 373-0857. Feel free to call after office hours and leave a message on his office voicemail. We would love to have him see a host of Bronco messages when he arrives each morning reminding him that our alumni are from every county in Michigan and this is a bad idea.
As the legislature must get the state budget in place by October 1, it is absolutely crucial that you contact your legislator now . Thanks again to all our loyal Bronco alumni that have been writing letters, sending e-mails, and calling their legislator on behalf of WMU. Go Broncos!
Source:
http://www.ciclt.net/wmu/