Governor signs higher education bill
On Friday, May 22, Governor Mark Dayton signed the higher education bill into law. The law provides $30 million in new funding to the University of Minnesota Medical School, $22.2 million for operating costs to enable tuition relief and $1 million for Alzheimer's disease research. President Kaler thanked the legislature and governor in a statement.
View the final comparison of proposals this session for University budget funding.
Governor vetoes environment & ag bill
On Saturday, May 23, Governor Mark Dayton vetoed the environment and agriculture bill. The bill, House File 846, included funding for the University for avian flu research; agriculture research, education, extension, and technology transfer; and rapid response.
The governor also vetoed the jobs and energy bill and the E-12 education bill. Consequently, Governor Dayton will have to call a special session in order to pass budgets in these areas before the new fiscal year begins on July 1.
Bonding bill possible during special session
A bonding bill may also become part of the special session negotiations. As you may recall, the Senate attempted to pass a $107 million bill just before adjournment. Neither the House or Senate bills provided funding for the University’s requested projects.
View the final comparison of proposals this session for University capital funding.