Support education by supporting six-mill levy

This November, I will be voting to reauthorize the six-mill levy.  The six-mill levy makes higher education more affordable for Montana citizens throughout the state. Students are footing nearly two- thirds of the cost of Montana’s institutions of higher education through tuition, compared to my grandparents only having to cover a third of the cost.

When my colleagues voted to slash the budget, higher education took a major hit. For the first time in a decade, institutions had to raise tuition. Many institutions were reluctant to implement the full increase in tuition to avoid drops in enrolment. As a result, many important programs across the state will be cut and faculty will be phased out of their jobs.

Despite trying to avoid raising tuition too much, nearly every higher education institution in Montana dropped in enrollment. Without the levy, tuition could rise by an additional 16 percent, making college unaffordable for even more Montana students and families.

The six-mill levy has passed every ten years since 1948 and is equal to $20 for a $100,000 home.  The levy is an investment in our citizens and Montana business. Our communities benefit from educated graduates who draw business to Montana by performing highly technical jobs and agricultural development.

Additionally, our graduates help protect our public lands and promote healthy fisheries. Most importantly, nearly 80 percent of Montana graduates find jobs within one year of graduating. Remember to vote for the six-mill levy this fall to continue investing in Montana.

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Democrat Jacob Bachmeier is the state representative for House District 28.