Maryland House Bill HB895

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/7/22

Caption

University of Maryland, College Park Campus - Student Fees - Athletic Department

Impact

This legislation will significantly impact how the University of Maryland allocates its budget for the athletic department. In practical terms, it means a gradual shift away from funding athletics through student fees, thus potentially affecting the resources available for sports programs. As the bill progresses, the university will need to identify alternative funding strategies, or face possible reductions in athletic services and support. The intent behind the bill is to ensure that more student fees are directed towards educational services and student support, rather than athletics.

Summary

House Bill 895 seeks to regulate the usage of student fees at the University of Maryland, College Park Campus specifically concerning the athletic department. The bill prohibits the university from allocating more than 12% of student fee revenues for the athletic department in the fiscal year 2023. Furthermore, starting in fiscal year 2024, this percentage will be reduced by 0.5% each year, until it reaches zero by fiscal year 2047. This change aims to address concerns regarding the prioritization of revenue sources at the university.

Contention

The bill has been met with some contention regarding the appropriateness of restricting the university's budgetary decisions. Opponents may argue that this legislation undermines the autonomy of the university to manage its finances as it sees fit. Proponents, however, contended that it promotes accountability and ensures that student fees serve the broader academic mission of the institution rather than disproportionately benefiting sports programs. As this bill progresses through the legislative process, it is likely to trigger debates about funding priorities across public universities.