The state Senate Education Committee favorably passed a piece of legislation Thursday that aims to form a commission to examine Louisiana higher education.
With 14 universities throughout the state battling for their share of funding during the current budget crisis, many have called for the restructuring and review of several institutions and systems.
House speaker Jim Tucker, R-Terrytown, has led the charge, authoring HB 794. The bill’s purpose is to form a commission to “review all aspects of postsecondary education in the state and report to the Legislature.”
Tucker and Commissioner of Higher Education Sally Clausen spoke to the Senate Education Committee, explaining the importance of examining the programs, structure and performance of every higher education institution in order to increase efficiency.
“I think we are at a point in our history where we have no choice,” Clausen said.
Higher education is facing massive budget cuts for the fiscal year that starts July 1.
Any major structural change to a university would require a 2/3 vote from the Legislature, an obstacle that may prove difficult if the commission is formed.—-Contact Kyle Bove at [email protected]