By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania's House Republican leader, Rep. Bryan Cutler, has outlined conditions for the University of Pennsylvania to secure state funding for its veterinary school.
Republicans seek assurance that taxpayer funds won't support institutions involved in "hate-based activities." A recent block of $32 million for the School of Veterinary Medicine was triggered by perceived inadequate responses to reported antisemitic acts during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Cutler's conditions include an unequivocal public statement against antisemitism, support for legislation addressing antisemitism in education, and a review of finances and student organizations for antisemitic ties.
The university, particularly Penn Vet, its sole recipient of annual state appropriation, faces scrutiny as President Liz Magill resigns amid allegations of antisemitism on campus. The House Republicans' vote fell short of the required two-thirds majority, prompting Penn Vet's hope for reconsideration. A task force of five Republican lawmakers will collaborate with the university, pursuing meetings with trustees. The university vows to combat antisemitism through its Action Plan and welcomes input for funding negotiations. Pennsylvania has funded the vet school since 1889, but securing state funding has become a recurrent challenge. Penn Vet, responsible for veterinary training and animal care, is at the center of this funding dispute amid broader state budget negotiations extending beyond the usual timeframe.
The response from Penn acknowledges Cutler's letter and pledges engagement in combating hate while expressing openness to finding common ground for funding the School of Veterinary Medicine.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education