“Disparity Dollars for Deferred Maintenance” Working in House Appropriations

TOPEKA – House Majority Leader Ray Merrick’s proposal to use disparity dollars recovered from the increase of non-resident tuition for the deferred maintenance backlog is scheduled to begin working through the House Appropriations Committee.

“Kansans are tired of the Regents passing the buck.  The wear and tear of university buildings should have been figured into the Regents budget,” said Merrick. “Raising resident tuition or expecting the taxpayers to shoulder a bigger burden because of this oversight is unacceptable.  My plan provides funding for deferred maintenance by closing an unnecessary gap in non-resident tuition rates”.

Raising non-resident tuition rates to the national average would produce a $33.5 million dollar a year revenue stream.  This adjustment would provide annual revenue for deferred maintenance expenses and protect Kansas students from tuition increases proposed under that pretext.

The Kansas Board of Regents estimates the current backlog of deferred maintenance expenses between $500 - $700 million dollars.  Merrick began to study tuition rates over a year ago and saw the connection between disparity and deferred maintenance needs.

“I am confident that Chairman Schwartz will study all available information and appropriately address deferred maintenance at our Regent institutions.  Disparity dollars should be a part of the final solution as well as Regent responsibility for regular ongoing maintenance”.

The Kansas Board of Regents released reports today suggesting that providing university maintenance funding would create new jobs and boost the state’s economy.

“The Regent’s spin on the state of university disrepair is as unrealistic and unfounded as the Governor’s suggestion to raid turnpike tolls,” concluded Merrick. “By their logic, ignoring their responsibility has created an economic stimulus.  Its time to look seriously at addressing deferred maintenance through appropriate and adequate revenue streams”.

House Appropriations will begin hearings on deferred maintenance Monday.

-30-