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Cross announces state budget investing in higher education

Published By Peak of Ohio on April 21, 2021
Jon Cross In The News

State Representative Jon Cross (R-Kenton) recently joined his House colleagues in approving House Bill 110, Ohio’s two-year state operating budget that invests in higher education and workforce development.

The plan maintains proposed funding increases for several initiatives, including the State Share of Instruction and the Ohio College Opportunity Grant.

As Chairman of the Finance Subcommittee on Higher Education, Cross heard testimony from dozens of advocates and led committee policy discussions on the state operating budget.

“This budget is a renewed effort to continue to attract, obtain, and retain students throughout the U.S. and in Ohio and prepare them for in-demand jobs to meet the needs of today’s workforce,” said Cross.

Cross highlighted the following investments in higher education and workforce development:

  • $2.5 million for the Commercial Truck Driver Student Aid Program to address to nation’s driver shortage
  • Increased funding by $1 million for Ohio Technical Centers
  • Increased funding by $2 million for the Ohio Arts Council
  • $300,000 to support students who attend institutions of higher education in Ohio and participate in the internship program of The Washington Center
  • $800,000 for the Rural University Program, which includes Bowling Green State University
  • A wide variety of campus-specific initiatives and programs

Cross also championed an amendment that grants in-state tuition status to an out-of-state student attending a graduate program if that student completed a bachelor’s degree program at an Ohio institution of higher education and immediately enrolls.

In addition, Cross applauded the creation of the Joint Legislative Study Committee to review career pathways and post-secondary workforce training programs.

The committee is required to issue a report to the General Assembly by November 1, 2022, that contains the committee’s findings and recommendations, as well as any proposed legislative changes or funding recommendations.

H.B. 110 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Cross plans to continue his work as the Chairman of the Finance Subcommittee on Higher Education as he researches and toils on legislation that will increase Ohio’s stance as an innovative place for initiatives in career readiness, workforce partnerships, and other higher education policies.

 
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