Kaine on higher ed; Moran joins in

Governor Tim Kaine today announced a proposed investment in higher education of $1.65 billion. This investment will take the form of a bond package.

“The proposed bond package supports innovative research, providing facilities across Virginia for researchers to develop new, cutting-edge technologies and turn them into commercial assets,” Governor Kaine said. “Our colleges and universities also help us build a workforce prepared to compete in a global economy. These investments will help Virginia’s higher education network keep delivering for our future.”

Democratic Caucus Chair Brian Moran joined Kaine, business leaders and college presidents from across the Commonwealth for the announcement. Moran said:

“In the 21st century global economy, investing in our higher education system is key. An overwhelming three-quarters of new R&D centers built in the next three years will be constructed in India and China. Governor Kaine has taken a bold step today to invest in building capacity at Virginia’s colleges and universities. We will make room for aspiring young minds who help fulfill our critical shortages of teachers, nurses and doctors. We will invest in cutting edge research to compete in this new century. This is a critical initiative – the most significant in 5 years – to move forward on higher education and I am proud to partner with Governor Kaine to get it done.”

The General Obligation bonds will require General Assembly and voter approval.