2011 issue brief: higher education
The problem:
- The state of Minnesota has not only failed to uphold its commitment to fund two-thirds of the cost of a public college education, but it has repeatedly cut state funding for higher education in recent years.
- Higher education has become increasingly unaffordable and inaccessible for Minnesota students. Insufficient funding has led to double-digit tuition increases, unsustainable student debt, and reductions in programs and staff in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and at the University of Minnesota.
- Minnesota now ranks 40th out of 50 states in state fiscal support for higher education as a share of personal income over the past 10 years.
The solution:
- Minnesota must provide a level of higher education investment that allows access to higher education for all Minnesotans. This includes a base funding increase each year of the biennium to compensate for the cost of inflation.
- State leaders must recognize that increased investment in higher education is essential to a favorable business climate and statewide economic prosperity. Thriving public colleges and universities are necessary to develop and maintain a skilled workforce, attract and retain small businesses and large corporations, and allow Minnesota to compete successfully in the global marketplace.
For more information, contact:
Jan Alswager, chief lobbyist, 651-292-4890
Jodee Buhr, lobbyist, 651-292-4830
January 25, 2011