A cancer research tower on the UNMC Omaha campus, a nursing and allied health education center in Kearney and a veterinary diagnostic center in Lincoln will receive state support if a budget passed by the Nebraska Legislature on Tuesday is approved by Gov. Dave Heineman.
 |
Funds for a cancer research tower on the UNMC campus were included in budget bills approved Tuesday by the Nebraska Legislature. The bills — which also include funding for a nursing and allied health education center in Kearney — now head to the desk of Gov. Dave Heineman for approval. |
- $50 million in state funds to support the construction of the cancer research tower;
- $15 million for the Kearney nursing and allied health project; and
- The state to pay the debt service on a $50 million bond for a veterinary diagnostic center in Lincoln.
A big-picture proposal
All three facilities are part of the University of Nebraska’s “Building a Healthier Nebraska” initiative. All the funds would come from the state’s cash reserve fund. A remainder of $341 million would be left in the fund after the “Healthier Nebraska” money is allotted.
“The legislature has approved a compelling set of projects that meets critical workforce needs, creates thousands of well-paying jobs, improves health care and expands educational opportunities for young people in our state,” said NU President James B. Milliken. “I want to thank the members of the legislature for their far-sighted investment, which will be leveraged with hundreds of millions of dollars in private support to create an exciting public-private partnership that serves Nebraskans.”
Committed to Nebraska’s health
Legislators showed great commitment to the health of Nebraskans with their votes, said UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D.
“This investment by the state stands to benefit countless people and to significantly improve the health of all Nebraskans,” Dr. Maurer said. “I applaud the legislature for its commitment to the well-being of this state’s residents.”
To voice support
Employees and students may inform the governor of their support but must contact him on their own time and without the use of university resources (computers, telephones, letterhead or university accounts).