Pihos: Played Politics Negatively Affects University Students
(Posted 05/22/2008) - Springfield, IL…A measure to remove funding for a variety of higher education programs throughout the state is one of the most appalling political tactics that has taken place since her tenure in office, said State Rep. Sandy Pihos (R-Glen Ellyn).
Democrats passed House Bill 6485 which removes an estimated $3.7 million in funding from universities—all of which are located in Republican districts. The tactic was meant as retaliation against Republican legislators who voted in committee for these programs, but voted against the overall budget on the House floor earlier May 21.The bill passed 63-32 in the House with one voting present.
“I find it appalling that politics were played and money that was intended for a variety of higher education programs will no longer be funded,” Pihos said. “This tactic only hurts the state’s young people who plan to attend these institutions. They will be left with fewer opportunities to obtain critical skills and experiences needed for their future.”
The bill removes general revenue funding from the following programs:
- $285,000 to Eastern University Nursing Program (Rep. Chapin Rose, R-110)
- $200,000 Northern University Nursing Program (Rep. Bob Pritchard, R-70)
- $200,000 Northern University Illinois Science, Technology, Mathematics, Engineering program (Rep. Bob Pritchard, R-70)
- $1,010,000 Southern University faculty salaries (Rep. Mike Bost, R-115)
- $869,100 Southern University Simmons Cooper Cancer Institute (Rep. Raymond Poe, R-99)
- $1,200,000 Western University Nursing Program (Rep. Rich Myers, R-94)
“In all my years of supporting education, I have never seen such a disregard for what is best for our young students,” Pihos said. “Fewer money for these important programs will not affect myself or my colleagues as adults but we will negatively affect our sons, daughters, nephews and nieces who will have fewer opportunities as a result of the choices made in the General Assembly.”