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Budget Committee rejects $5 million transfer proposal for Martin University
Summary
A motion to encourage a $5 million transfer from the Rainy Day Fund to support Martin University failed 3–2 after debate about direct appropriations to private institutions and prior funding history.
Representative Gregory Porter moved that the State Budget Committee recommend the State Board of Finance transfer $5 million from the Rainy Day Fund to the Commission for Higher Education as a 20‑year loan at 1% interest to support Martin University, and also asked InvestEd to move $5 million from unrestricted earnings to the university. Senator David Niezgodski seconded the motion. Senator Chris Garten questioned whether any private institution had previously received a direct appropriation; Director Chad Ranney said he was familiar with a prior appropriation to Martin University.
The committee debated whether the transfer was an appropriate use of state funds. Representative Porter argued the transfers would allow Martin University to continue operations; proponents noted prior support and the university’s local role. Opponents raised concerns about precedent and fiscal policy. The motion failed on a 3–2 vote.
The failed motion followed a presentation by the Commission for Higher Education on the Frank O’Bannon schedule of awards and a $55 million reduction that Deputy CFO Cody Robison said had affected students. The committee approved the rest of the agenda without amendment later in the session.
No further action on the Martin University transfer was recorded at the meeting.
