This is the first in a three part series about the Michigan House and Senate Reconvening.

With the second half of the 2001 Michigan Legislature’s session fast approaching, MSU students are hoping to see a greater emphasis on higher education in the legislative agenda.

Students from the MSU Democrats and the MSU College Republicans say they are hopeful the tuition tax credit is repealed and funding is lifted to 3 percent when session reconvenes Sept. 11.

“As college students, we want to make sure that our side of the story is heard,” said Jason Ahrens, a food industry management junior and president of the MSU College Republicans. “We want to make sure MSU is funded the same as the other Michigan schools.\"

In June, a 1.5 percent increase in state funding for MSU, Wayne State University and the University of Michigan was approved by state legislators. But students say the increase wasn’t enough to close the funding gap, which historically has left MSU trailing the other schools in funds per student in comparison with their in-state counterparts.

The MSU Board of Trustees raised tuition by 8.9 percent, the largest increase since the 1993-94 school year, to make up for the smaller than expected increase.

“It is a big issue for college students, especially with tuition increases,” Ahrens said.

The MSU Democrats also said more attention should be paid to environmental standards and voting concerns.

“There are real issues with voter disenfranchisement and lack of equipment in low income areas,” said Jody Weissler, a environmental studies senior and president of the MSU Democrats. “Those are things that need to be addressed.”

Sage Eastman, spokesman for the Michigan Republican Party, said state legislators will continue to look at education, taxes and health care.

“We think it is important to continue the reforms that have brought Michigan back,” he said. “Our biggest concern is to continue strong support for the public universities to keep tuition as low as possible.”

Dennis Denno, spokesman for the Michigan Democratic Party, said Democrats would also like to see an additional focus on educational spending.

Those interested in getting involved with the student groups can find out more about the MSU Democrats at www.msu.edu/~msudems/ and the MSU College Republicans at www.msu.edu/~repubs/.

Both groups offer opportunities for students to join campaigns, debate issues and become interns in the state Capitol.