Examining HB265: 'Is higher education in Utah better off than it was a year ago?'

Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes KEY TAKEAWAYS

HB265 has altered operations at Utah's eight public degree-granting institutions significantly.

Proponents argue it enhances efficiency and aligns education with workforce needs.

Critics highlight negative impacts on humanities and rural education, questioning overall benefits.

SALT LAKE CITY — House Bill 265 — the so-called "Higher Education Strategic Reinvestment" measure — has dramatically altered operations at Utah's eight public degree-granting institutions.

Earlier this year, the Utah Legislature cut 10% from each school's budgets — then allowed them in subsequent months to recapture those withheld funds if they successfully "reinvested" in programs determined to be of highest value to both students and Utah's economy.

HB265 pro