MDHE discusses stimulus dough
The Missouri Department of Higher Education held a meeting on Thursday to discuss the various programs that will likely benefit from the federal stimulus package.
According to a news release from the department, college enrollment increases in times of economic recession, and the stimulus package could help expand college affordability by maintaining state funding to higher education.
"The state stabilization funds would allow Missouri to have a balanced budget while protecting jobs, providing training and enhancing the state's capacity to attract new industry," Paul Wagner, deputy commissioner of higher education, started in the release. "An influx of money at this critical juncture won't just assist the faltering economy, it will help protect the foundation of higher education that the state needs to grow the workforce of the future."
The department said the state's economy could improve through the support that the package will provide to higher education. Check Anthony Gotelli's report on the education side of the package for more details. Also, look for further analysis in Tuesday's issue.
Tim Gallimore, MDHE assistant commissioner for academic affairs, said the package contains provisions that have "natural applications" to higher education, such as increased spending for the National Science Foundaton and agriculture research.
"Missouri colleges and universities are poised to have an immediate, positive impact on the economy," Gallimore stated in the news release. "Small ripples that start out in college labs and classrooms will create waves felt around the state and nation."
The department will present it's budget recommendations to the Missouri House Education Appropriations Committee on Tuesday at 2 p.m. in Hearing Room 1 at the Capitol Building in Jefferson City. Expect a report on this presentation, provided that one of our reporters can find a ride to Jefferson City. Politics Watch is staffed with many pedestrians.