Gov. Rick Perry claims legislative success for higher education at ACU Media advisory June 6, 2001 On campus at Abilene Christian University today, Gov. Rick Perry said, "The one piece of legislation I'm most proud of is the Texas grant legislature." The Texas legislative session that recently ended provided $82.2 million each for the years 2002 and 2003 for TEG grants - a $20 million increase over the $62.2 million each for the years of 2000 and 2001. "That means more West Texas young men and women will show up at the doors of McMurry, Hardin-Simmons and Abilene Christian," Perry said. "The citizens of the Abilene area can be proud of a number of accomplishments that will benefit this area. Tuition equalization grants were increased by $40 million, helping financially needy students at private universities like Abilene Christian University." Speaking to a crowd of more than 100 in ACU's Mabee Business Building atrium, Perry declared the recently completed 77th session of the Texas Legislature a success, saying lawmakers "made great strides on behalf of future generations of Texans." He detailed a long list of session accomplishments, noting that education - particularly higher education - was a big winner. The increase in funding for grants will offer more students from low- and moderate-income families the opportunity to attend college. "Sixty-five thousand young Texans will have the opportunity to go to an institution of higher learning because of the Texas grant programs," Perry said. "The best economic development tool is an education. The best crime prevention tool is an education. The best welfare prevention tool is an education." All of these efforts contribute to Texas being a better place to live, he said. "That's really what we're all about - making this a better place to live for all Texans," he said. -30- See related Abilene Reporter-News story: Perry says education won out during session     Archived News Releases - Current ACU News and Events If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Tom Craig, director of media and community relations, at craigt@acu.edu or call 915-674-2692 (cell phone: 665-5469). Last update: June 7, 2001 This page is maintained by Tom Craig, craigt@acu.edu. http://www.acu.edu/events/news/010604_governor.html