By State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper)
This year, the Interim Study Committee on Fiscal Policy was asked to look into data related to the increasing cost of higher education.
On Oct. 10, the committee heard from every public university in Indiana on the cost of obtaining a college degree.
Here in Indiana, institutions like Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College have worked to keep costs low for their students.
Purdue University has frozen their tuition since 2013, while Ivy Tech's most recent set of tuition and fees will result in lower costs for about two-thirds of their students.
At many colleges and universities, however, the cost of tuition has significantly increased in recent years.
Having high-quality college and university options is an important tool for Indiana to attract new businesses and maintain a good economy for our workforce.
However, with the increasing costs of necessities in recent years, these public institutions must work to ensure that the taxpayer dollars they use are being managed responsibly. This will not only keep costs low for our taxpayers, but also help keep tuition low for students.
During the upcoming legislative session, I look forward to discussing ways public colleges and universities can save money while still offering the high-quality education students deserve with fellow lawmakers.
As always, feel free to contact my office directly with your questions and concerns by email at Senator.Messmer@iga.in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) represents Senate District 48,
which includes Crawford, Dubois, Gibson, Perry, Pike and Spencer counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
