Issue Position: Higher Education

Issue Position

As Vice Chair of the Assembly Colleges & Universities Committee, I understand how the UW System is the engine that drives our area economy. UWEC is one of our area's largest employers and generates a lot of money throughout our region. For every $1 million invested into UWEC, the community receives revenue of $1.44 million. Many businesses are here primarily to serve the University community. I will fight to protect and enhance the UW System that has obviously been proven to be a true investment in our economic system and our community.

I authored and passed legislation that would create more regional balance on the UW Board of Regents. After that bill was vetoed, I was still able to help secure the appointment of a Regent from Eau Claire -- the first time in over 30 years the Chippewa Valley has had a Regent appointed by the Governor.

I believe I have a responsibility to support not just institutions of higher learning, but students as well. I coauthored legislation that eliminates the sales tax on textbooks in order to lower prices for students. I also authored legislation that cracks down on deceptive marketing practice by credit card companies to help college students avoid falling into credit card debt.

Assembly Democrats have provided $5.2 million in increased funding for our technical colleges, the front line of worker retraining efforts.

Source