On January 13, leaders from Maine’s public universities and community colleges expressed their support for Governor Janet Mills’ new budget proposal. This proposal includes a 4% increase in funding for higher education and aims to extend the state’s free community college program.
Governor Mills introduced her two-year, $11.6 billion budget plan, which features $25 million to maintain free tuition for Maine students at community colleges. Additionally, the education budget will rise by 4%, reaching $41 million to benefit the University of Maine System, the Maine Community College System, and Maine Maritime Academy. The budget also includes $10 million to help public higher education staff with their contributions to the new Paid Family Medical Leave program.
During a recent meeting, Chancellor Dannel Malloy acknowledged the governor’s efforts while pointing out that challenges remain. “We are not yet out of the woods,” he said, stressing that both the Legislature and the governor must work together to address ongoing financial issues. Nonetheless, he noted that the governor’s recommendations mark a positive start to the conversation.
The state’s three higher education systems collectively voiced their strong backing for the proposed budget. David Daigler, president of the community college system, highlighted the significance of making the free community college program a permanent part of the state budget rather than relying on temporary funding.
“This is a big step for Maine students and families. It shows that the state is committed to building a stronger workforce and future,” Daigler said, emphasizing that the funding is vital for supporting faculty, staff, and students.
Since the fall of 2022, over 17,000 students have benefited from the tuition-free community college program, which provides up to two years of free education for full-time students who hold a high school diploma or GED.
The education leaders also appreciated the governor’s budget for addressing costs related to the Paid Family Medical Leave program, which began this year. Mills allocated $10 million to cover contributions from both employers and employees at public colleges and universities, affecting around 12,200 staff members.
Recent years have been tough financially for the University of Maine System. Funding hasn’t kept pace with inflation, and enrollment was declining. However, this year marked a positive change, with a 3% increase in both undergraduate and graduate students—the first growth in decades.
In the fall, Daigler and Malloy jointly requested continued funding for the community college tuition program, increased support for rising operational costs, and investments in higher education infrastructure. Currently, Maine’s educational institutions face $2 billion in deferred maintenance needs.
Interim President Craig Johnson of Maine Maritime Academy also welcomed the budget proposal. This college focuses on marine-related fields and has around 950 students.
“Maine Maritime Academy offers unique education and training that leads to successful careers for our graduates, both in Maine and globally,” Johnson said. He acknowledged the financial challenges the state faces while praising the support for vital programs and projects.
Source link
Maine Maritime Academy, Janet Mills, University of Maine System, community colleges, Maine, Maine Community College System, Maine Maritime, higher education
