By
The Wildcat Opinions Board
Arizona Student Association (ASA) is lobbying the state legislature for a critical cause - increasing need-based education funding from the state.
The state must respond to ASA's efforts by upping its contribution to need-based funds that state universities receive.
As tuition levels rise regularly, many students are forced to take out student loans in order to pay for college. Out-of-state students have an even more difficult time funding their education, since they pay higher tuition.
Currently the state funds 1 percent of the need-based scholarship fund. ASA is only asking for this amount to increase to 2 percent-not a huge dent in the state's budget.
Given that the state is dedicated to providing an education that is as free as possible - as is expressly stated in the state constitution - it seems only logical that the state respond in favor of ASA's request for greater need-based funds. As ASA executive director Paul Peterson said, "The cost of education continues rising, and the form of aid is switching from free aid to loans. This is an opportunity for the state to help students who definitely need it."
If the state approves ASA's bill, more than 3,000 people could benefit next year. The state should not pass up such an opportunity to help stick to its constitutionally-mandated commitment.
ASA is working for the financial benefit of Arizona college students, the state legislature should do the same.
