Directs the Bd. of Regents to include recommended funding distributions for each public postsecondary education system and institution in the funding formula report that it is required to submit to the legislature by March 31st
Impact
The implementation of HCR7 could significantly reform how funding is reported and allocated within the state's postsecondary education systems. With a clearer understanding of institutional-level funding needs, the legislature would be better equipped to address disparities among different institutions. This could lead to a more equitable distribution of state funds, ensuring that lesser-funded institutions receive the resources necessary to enhance their educational offerings and support services for students.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 7 (HCR7) directs the Board of Regents to include recommended funding distributions for each public postsecondary education system and institution in the funding formula report that it submits annually to the legislature by March 31st. This resolution aims to enhance transparency and ensure that legislators have detailed data regarding funding allocations. By explicitly including institution-level funding recommendations, the resolution seeks to enable informed decision-making in legislative appropriations regarding higher education in Louisiana, thereby potentially improving resource distribution across public institutions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR7 appears positive, as the bill addresses a common concern about the adequacy of funding transparency in higher education. Supporters advocate that it promotes accountability and aligns budget allocations with the real needs of institutions, contributing to improved educational outcomes. While specific contention points were not highlighted in the available documentation, potential opposition could arise from stakeholders who may prefer a more decentralized approach to funding or who are concerned about the administrative burden of producing more detailed reports.
Contention
While no notable points of contention were documented, the passage of HCR7 signifies a shift towards increased scrutiny of funding mechanisms in higher education. Opponents might question whether the additional reporting requirements placed on the Board of Regents could create bureaucratic challenges or delay the funding process. Nonetheless, the resolution represents a legislative effort to improve higher education funding structures in Louisiana, focusing on accountability and the proper allocation of resources.
Requires the Board of Regents to include recommended funding distributions for each public postsecondary education system and institution in the annual funding formula report that it submits to the legislature
Requires Board of Regents to include recommended funding distributions for each public postsecondary education system and institution in annual funding formula report it submits to legislature and revises deadline
Requests that Board of Regents develop a permanent funding formula for LOUIS and support LOUIS as a critical component of the success of public postsecondary education institutions (EG +$2,237,601 GF EX See Note)
Requests that the Board of Regents, in consultation with the public postsecondary education management boards, study issues and compile data relative to faculty at public postsecondary education institutions
Requests the Board of Regents to consider articulation and transfer efforts of public postsecondary educational institutions when allocating funds through the funding formula for public postsecondary education.
Creates the Medical Education & Research Finance Work Group to provide findings and recommendations to the legislature relative to a formula-based financing model for the funding of Louisiana's public institutions for graduate and professional medical education and biomedical and health-related research
Directs Bd. of Regents to submit by April 15, 2016, a report outlining initiatives the board, in consultation with management boards, will take to ensure greater efficiency in postsecondary education for the 2016-2017 Fiscal Year and beyond
Directs the Board of Regents to submit to the presiding officers of the legislature information regarding consolidation of baccalaureate degree granting public postsecondary education institutions