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(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman today signed LB 605, which provides state funding for maintenance and improvement projects on the campuses of the University of Nebraska and Nebraska’s state colleges. The bill authorizes more than $150 million in general funds for use over the next 14 years.
“This bill represents a commitment to helping ensure Nebraska’s institutions of higher learning remain in good condition for our students,” Gov. Heineman said. “Education is a priority in this state and these buildings are places for learning and research and they are a significant part of our state infrastructure. It’s important we act as good stewards of these properties.”
LB 605 was introduced by Sen. Nancy Thompson of LaVista and is intended to provide a long-term source of funding for capital repair and maintenance projects on state-owned postsecondary campuses across Nebraska.
Sen. Thompson said, “Quality facilities are essential to Nebraska’s ability to attract and retain talented students and faculty. LB 605 helps ensure quality learning environments at our state colleges and universities.”
The bill will provide a total of $137.5 million in state funding for University of Nebraska projects, beginning in FY 2006-07 through FY 2019-20. The University will match the contribution with $121 million in institutional funds distributed over time, beginning in FY 2009-10. The state college system will receive $15.75 million in incremental funding over the next 14 years, beginning in FY 2006-07. Nebraska’s state colleges will match the state contribution with $14.4 million.
University of Nebraska President James B. Milliken said, “LB 605 is a smart investment in the future of the University and the state, and we are very grateful for the support of the Governor and the Legislature. This legislation will allow us to renovate and replace facilities that no longer meet the needs of our students, faculty and other Nebraskans.”
Stan Carpenter, chancellor of the Nebraska state college system, said, “I’m very pleased that the Governor signed the bill. It will make a positive difference in the lives of our students and the future of our state.”
Sen. Don Pederson, chairman of the Appropriations Committee, said, “There are significant moments in the history of our state and I truly believe this is one of those moments. For our students to meet the challenges of the 21st Century they must have facilities to achieve these goals. LB 605 will provide these tools and I’m pleased that my colleagues endorsed this proposal.”
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