House defeats Ponca City higher ed bill
The House on Tuesday defeated a bill regarding the University Center at Ponca City after concerns were raised about the center eventually becoming a branch campus and requiring additional funds. Members voted 34 to 58 on HB 2443, by Rep. Dale DeWitt, R-Braman, which would create a nine-member board of trustees to serve as the administrative agency of the University Center at Ponca City. Rep. Lee Denney, R-Cushing, who presented the bill, emphasized that the bill was only meant to streamline the center’s operations by placing it under one board of trustees. But, questions from members persisted. Denney served notice that she may move to reconsider the bill’s vote. Also on Tuesday, the House heard from former U.S. House Speaker and Republican presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich. The House will reconvene at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. For the full report go to www.ecapitol.net