Whereas, the Board of Regents understands the fiscal constraints under which the Montana legislature and executive branch are making resource allocation, revenue, and policy decisions in the current legislative session, as a result of the current state budget deficit; and

 

Whereas, the Board of Regents has concluded that the long-term solution for Montana's fiscal constraints is a strong and growing economy to generate sustainable revenues for the support of valuable and essential public services, including postsecondary education; and

 

Whereas, the Board of Regents notes that postsecondary education has played a vital role in supporting and stimulating economic growth in other states seeking to strengthen and diversify their economies; and

 

Whereas, the Board of Regents has determined that Montana's public colleges, universities, and MUS agencies are playing a significant role in Montana's economy, yet can play an even greater role with additional public and private resources:

 

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Regents supports and commits itself to activities that will produce a strong and growing Montana economy, which will help to generate sustainable revenues for the support of valuable and essential public services, including postsecondary education; and

 

Be it further resolved, that the Board of Regents encourages the Montana legislature and executive branch to pursue long-term economic solutions to the State's fiscal constraints, and to consider the Montana University System as an investment that can play a vital role in stimulating economic success; and

 

Be it further resolved, that the Board of Regents dedicates itself to work as partners with the legislative, executive, local, business, and educational communities to improve the Montana economy.

 

Adopted this ____ day of March, 2003 by the Montana Board of Regents.

 

_____________________________
Richard Roehm
Chairman