House passes higher ed budget with cuts

The House has voted 48-20 in favor of SB 1419, the higher education budget, which includes a 14.1 percent cut in state general funds and a 7.8 percent cut overall. The bill, which already has passed the Senate, now goes to Gov. Butch Otter. There was quite a bit of debate both for and against the budget. “I think we’re going down the wrong road here by inadequately supporting higher education,” said Rep. Tom Trail, R-Mosow. Countered Rep. Dennis Lake, R-Blackfoot, “I think this is a good budget, knowing the economic circumstances we’re facing.” Said Rep. Elaine Smith, D-Pocatello, “The universities can’t afford this - we need to help them more.” Said Rep. Janice McGeachin, R-Idaho Falls, “We’re going through some tough times right now. What we’re doing is being fiscally responsible.”