Governor Bobby Jindal’s new budget in Louisiana proposes off-setting declines in oil revenue by cutting $1.6 million from the budget of state higher education institutions. At the same time as it is predicted that 60% of adults in 2025 will have to have postsecondary credentials in order for the U.S. to maintain its economic edge, it appears that states are getting out of the public higher-education business.

Questions:
1. Summarize the new analysis of the Pell Group regarding state funding of public higher education.
2. Based on your opinion, discuss the following question: Is it possible to cut our way to prosperity, through austere measures?
3. How is the austerity plan working out in European countries?
4. Do you agree or disagree with the statement in the article: The cuts would be “gubernatorial malpractice of the highest order.” Support your answer with a cost benefit analysis.

Source:
Wong, Alia (2015). Bobby Jindal, Budget Cuts, and the Uncertain Fate of Louisiana’s Universities. Atlantic, May 7 (Retrievable online at http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2015/05/bobby-jindal-budget-cuts-and-the-uncertain-fate-of-louisianas-public-universities/392552/)

Video by LSU alumni. (2015). Education Not Guaranteed: Louisiana State U. in Crisis, A Case Study available on YouTube.com