Bill would require explanation of proposed tuition hikes

<br>(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Higher education officials would have to explain proposed tuition increases under a bill passed by the state House Tuesday. <br><br>The explanation would have to come before lawmakers

Tuesday, March 2nd 2004, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Higher education officials would have to explain proposed tuition increases under a bill passed by the state House Tuesday.

The explanation would have to come before lawmakers pass a budget for colleges and universities.

The bill passed on a 52-to-42 vote despite arguments it undercuts last year's bill that allows colleges to raise tuition. After last year's bill was approved, tuition at some universities increased by almost 30%.

Representative Joe Sweeden of Pawhuska says his bill does not undo last year's legislation. Sweeden says it only makes sense for lawmakers to know how much fees and tuition are expected to rise when they're writing the budgets.