Indiana House committee approves $40 million life science plan

The Indiana Ways and Means Committee approved a $40 million plan to bring increased life sciences funding to IU on Monday morning as a part of proposed two-year, $26 billion state budget by Democratic leaders. \nThe proposal, which passed through committee with a 15-8 vote of approval, called for about half of the $80 million life sciences funding plan that IU President Adam Herbert and other top University officials have called for over the past several months. \n"This is the first key step in the process," said J.T. Forbes, IU executive director of state relations.\nHe said the committee approval was "a strong sign in recognition and support" of the life sciences at IU. \nAnd even though the proposed funding falls significantly short of what the University had initially requested, Forbes said that as the proposal begins to spark discussion in the Indiana General Assembly, amendments to the spending plan would likely bring increased funding for the life sciences, saying he thought it was unlikely the potential spending would be cut further. \n"We are going to fight very hard," Forbes said, referring to what he said will be continued University efforts in gathering funds for life sciences. \nThe spending plan will come up for debate to all members of the House later this week, Forbes said, and if approved, will then come up for Senate consideration.