Ohio politicians work on lowering cost of college

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

Ohio’s governor and key state legislators agree that college affordability is a priority, although they are offering different approaches.

The Columbus Dispatch reports that universities are likely to feel the pinch after House Republicans and Gov. John Kasich agree on a plan.

Kasich’s proposed budget capped tuition hikes at 2 percent over two years, while legislators want a flat $200 cap on increases at four-year schools, with a $100 cap on two-year and regional campuses. The House also would ban “course overload” fees for students who want to take more than the typical full loads.

A Miami University official said the school’s high cost is still a value because of its education results. David Creamer, senior vice president for finance and business services, asked legislators Friday to go back to Kasich’s 2 percent cap proposal.

Rep. Mike Duffey, R-Worthington, who headed the finance subcommittee on higher education, said a flat dollar rate is fairer, while a percentage cap would allow large tuition increases at expensive schools.

“If affordability is the No. 1 issue right now in higher education, and I think it is, then we should focus on those who are less expensive,” Duffey said.

Miami University, at $24,674, has the highest net cost among the nation’s four-year public institutions, according to the U.S. Department of Education’s College Affordability and Transparency Center. The Dispatch reports that Ohio State University ranks ninth in that measure, with the University of Cincinnati 16th, Kent State University 19th and Ohio University 22nd. The net cost includes tuition, fees, books and room and board, without grants and scholarships.

Some university officials argue that the rankings reflect lack of state funding, which has dropped well below 2000 levels.

State Senate President Keith Faber, R-Celina, has challenged universities to find ways to lower overall student costs by 5 percent. He said he’s been happy with response so far from the universities.

Faber expects that the Senate will increase higher-education funding in its budget work.

“Higher education has taken a back seat on the budgetary bus too long,” Faber said. “If they show efficiency, they should be entitled to some additional state resources.”