UPDATE: Commission recommends increase of funding for IU

IU saw a promising first step in attaining a greater portion of state funds Monday when the Indiana Commission for Higher Education made their state budget recommendation. \nThe executive-appointed committee called for a 2.5 percent increase in state operating appropriations in 2007-08 for the University, said J.T. Forbes, IU director of state relations. \n"The good news about this recommendation is that it is trying to take a step in reversing the trend," he said referring to the smaller budget appropriations IU has seen in recent years. \nHe added that this is a good starting point for what will be a long project. \nEven with the recommendations, the funding increase still faces a tough road. Gov. Mitch Daniels will issue his recommendations when the legislative session begins early next year, Forbes said. Following the governor's proposal, both Houses in the Indiana General Assembly will take up the budget proposal.\nAlthough Forbes said he was not positive the funding increase would occur, he added he had confidence in the legislators to work for the University. \n"I think there is a strong desire by everyone at the statehouse to invest in Indiana's economic development," he said. "But without educated residents, this becomes very difficult."\nIf the increases are reflected in next year's budget, the additional funds will be distributed throughout the University and will affect things such as "financial aid, faculty salary and all services and programs that we offer students in classes and advising," Forbes said.\nThe extra cash would be in addition to the $80 million IU President Adam Herbert requested at the statehouse last month to further develop the life sciences at the University. \n"It's hard to know what the Senate or House will say," Forbes said. "A lot of factors are still in play"