In an effort to sponsor more student events and prevent boards from running out of money, members of ASMSU's Student Assembly gave additional money to Programming and Funding boards in its 2004-05 budget.

Programming and Funding boards have about $171,000 and $89,000, respectively, from MSU's undergraduate student government. Overall, it's an increase of about $57,000 from the 2003-04 budget.

Work done by the two boards is the best way for students to be affected by ASMSU, said College of Communication Arts and Sciences representative Paul Harmon, who sits on the finance committee.

Programming Board money is used to sponsor student events; Funding Board money goes to registered student organizations.

At least 30 percent of ASMSU's budget must go to the two boards.

This year's budget is $834,012.

Earlier this semester, both Programming and Funding board came before the assembly because they ran out of money. The assembly voted to give $10,000 more to each board.

Brent Lee, vice chairperson for student programming, said he was pleased with the new allocation.

"It comes down to helping us put on more programs for the students of Michigan State," Lee said.

Lee said the extra money should help fund an added 20 events.

But Comptroller Mike Trudeau, who voiced his opinion against giving more money to Programming Board earlier this semester, said he still has reservations about how the money will be used.

"Programming Board funds good programs, but I have not seen it run professionally," he said. "I've seen inconsistencies - they occasionally deviate from policy, which causes stress over here."

He suggested a funding cap similar to the $3,000-per-event limit on Funding Board. Programming Board currently can give an event as much money as it is able.

More money also will be added to ASMSU's scholarship program and for executive officers to use to promote the organization.