Editor’s note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the bill allowed for transportation within 50 miles of campus. The story has since been updated to accurately reflect that the funding is for travel within 50 miles of the lodging location during a student’s trip.
A new Student Senate bill aims to change the Student Government Association’s individual funding process.
SGA currently allows students to apply for funding to attend a conference with a $1,500 cap. The money can be requested to cover lodging, meal costs up to $25 per day, registration and transportation costs more than 50 miles from their lodging location.
Chari Abdullah Tiwana, chairperson of the Government Oversight Committee presented new legislation that would allow funding for travel within 50 miles of the lodging location, not exceeding $100 per fiscal year per student.
This would include any type of transportation such as rideshare or public transportation like bus or subway.
This was the bill’s first reading, meaning the Senate could ask questions about it but no action was taken. Now, it is in the hands of the Government Oversight Committee to make alterations based on discussions in the Senate. After revisions, the bill will return to the Senate floor at a later meeting for debate and a vote.
Students can share their thoughts on legislation at weekly Student Senate meetings during the public forum period. Senate meetings are on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Rhatigan Student Center, room 233.
A recording of the meeting is available here. SGA live streams all Senate meetings on its Youtube channel.
