AUSTIN, TX — Today, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick appointed Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa to the Joint Interim Committee on Higher Education Formula Funding. The committee is charged with preparing recommendations for realignment and/or possible elimination of non-formula support items and improvements of formula funding for institutions of higher education.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement on the importance of this committee and the need for a strong higher education funding plan:

“Investing in our institutions of higher education is key to the future growth and success of Texas. Funding for higher education in the state budget plays a critical role in ensuring that our universities are providing our students with the tools they need to successfully complete their degrees. They also allow universities to collaborate with their communities to help address local challenges and respond to workforce needs.

It is imperative that we have discussions surrounding the possible realignment of formula funding and that we work to improve the way our institutions of higher education are funded. I am honored to have been appointed to this Joint Interim Committee so that South Texas is at the forefront of these critical discussions.

Higher education special items are items in the state budget that are not supported through formula funding and support the special mission of the institution. Special items can also be used to support new academic programs or address geographic disparities and other inequities among institutions.

Other members of the committee include: Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills (co-chair); Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham; Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels; and Sen. Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown.

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