Panel approves K‑State funding additions and directives, including $5 million for nuclear accelerator and inquiry on dairy barn

The Committee on Higher Education Budget advanced multiple Kansas State University items, including a $5,000,000 SGF addition for a proposed nuclear research accelerator, restoration of a $5,640 Water Institute reappropriation, and a committee note to pursue solutions for a deteriorating dairy facility.

Dayton, staff to the committee, briefed members on Special Budget Committee recommendations including global FTE deletions and SGF reappropriation lapses. Chair proposed an amendment to add $5 million to K State for a nuclear research accelerator, saying the funding would support curriculum development, equipment and staff for a new research/education branch. Representative Wagner asked whether funds were for staff, construction or operations; the chair answered that the package was "all the above," covering curriculum, equipment and likely additional staff.

The chair also asked to restore a $5,640 reappropriation for the Water Institute after SBC lapsed that small item; members added the restoration into the motion.

Separately, members raised the condition of a K State dairy facility. Chair said the university had not included the facility in its initial request and that a draft funding formula is circulating that would require a combination of state, institutional and corporate partnerships. The committee adopted an intent note asking appropriations and related committees to continue exploring options for the dairy barn.

After amendments, the committee approved advancing Kansas State University’s FY26‑27 budgets as amended. Members repeatedly framed the nuclear accelerator as a workforce and economic development investment aligned to the institution’s nuclear reactor and Kansas’ energy priorities.