A $2 million budget cut to the University of Idaho and Boise State University as proposed by the Idaho Legislature has officially been approved by the Senate and House.
Presented by Rep. Elaine Price, R-Coeur d’Alene, the proposal was inspired by concern over UI and BSU “incorporating elements of diversity, equity and inclusion into programs despite the state prohibiting colleges and universities from using state money for such programs,” according to the Idaho Capital Sun.
The schools directly impacted by this proposal are UI and BSU; Idaho State University and other state schools will face no effects.
Despite apparent reluctance and at length deliberation according to bill sponsor Sen. Cindy Carlson, R-Riggins, the budget cut was overwhelmingly passed by the House 64-2 on Tuesday, April 2.
Carlson noted that pulling $4 million in total funding was not a “rash decision” by the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee.
“The work group looked at alternative options and deliberated at length about possible reductions,” Carlson said to the Idaho Press. “In the end, we concluded that these cuts, even though they may be objectionable to some members, are politically necessary at the current moment.”
Those who objected during the initial Senate hearing, which included members from both political parties, said that the universities have already done what the state has asked by slashing DEI programs and funding.
Sen. Treg Bernt, R-Meridian, doesn’t believe the budget cuts to be justified.
“And I don’t like it, and I think it’s politics,” Bernt said to the Idaho Press. “I think politics has its place, but sometimes in these situations, I think we need to give kudos where kudos are deserved. And I think our higher ed universities are doing a good job.”
Despite this, Bernt eventually voted in support of passing the proposition as per the Legislative Session information.
It now awaits Governor Brad Little’s signature.
Paige Wilton can be reached at arg-news@uidaho.edu.