Editor,
The ASUNM Lobby Committee participates annually in the New Mexico legislative session by lobbying for initiatives that affect students of the University. Goals for this session include the maintenance of low tuition by supporting a zero to minimal increase in the tuition credit, as well as doubling the current amount of state work-study funding. The ASUNM Lobby Committee has been working diligently on its initiatives since the summer and has been present at the Legislature on a regular basis since the opening day.
Tuesday is UNM Day at the state Capitol. We will have information tables and will be speaking to legislators about issues important to UNM. ASUNM has arranged transportation to the Legislature, which is available to any student with an interest in lobbying. The bus will leave UNM at 7:30 a.m. and return around 3 p.m. Please call the ASUNM office at 277-5528, e-mail us at Asunm@unm.edu, or stop by our office in the SUB for more information.
This year, the ASUNM Lobby Committee will focus on five issues. The first priority is to increase the current amount of state work-study funding. State work-study is granted on a no-need basis, which will allow more students the
opportunity to receive this funding. The more funding we receive, the more jobs available on campus for students.
The second priority is 0 percent tuition credit increase. A tuition credit sounds great until you realize it is actually a credit to the state and an automatic increase in tuition for students. ASUNM will encourage full-formula funding without an increase in the tuition credit.
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While supporting a 0 percent tuition credit, we will express our gratitude for the continuation of the Lottery Success Scholarship. Another initiative is to receive funding for new shuttle buses. If you commute to campus and have to ride the shuttle buses, you should be able to do so comfortably.
Finally, we will be lobbying for funding to help make our campus more sustainable. We will be requesting money to help purchase and install systems in buildings around campus that will ensure a more energy-efficient future for the University.
Legislators are always receptive to students and would love to hear from you directly about these initiatives. Please contact ASUNM today to find out more about the initiatives listed above and to reserve your seat on the bus to the Capitol.
Ashley Christine Fate
ASUNM president
