As Congress continues to look at a reconcilliation measure, one area that could impact Kansas State University would be funding for new or renovated agricultural research facilities at the nation’s land grant schools.
Dean of K-State’s College of Agriculture Dr. Ernie Minton tells KMAN the needs are a result of what was a building boom for those facilities in the 50’s and 60’s.
Minton tells KMAN one reason the funding is needed is tied to national security.
Minton says the Kansas delegation is working with K-State to ensure that there’s some funding included, even if the Build Back Better package doesn’t contain the full three-point-65 billion dollars currently earmarked for those infrastructure upgrades.
Minton says he and his colleagues know what they’re asking for might be a bit too rich for some on the Hill.
Agricultural economists have estimated that for every dollar invested in ag research there is a double-digit increase as return on that investment, according to Minton.
Overall, the reconciliation package would include seven-point-75 billion dollars in investments towards ag research and infrastructure.
