• printer friendly
• mail this article
• iPod format
• digg

The proposed Associated Students of UCLA fee increase makes sense, provided the money goes toward services students actually need and want.

As it stands, UCLA students pay only $7.50 per year to support ASUCLA operations, including Ackerman Union, student programming and campus eateries. (ASUCLA fees are not used to fund Student Media publications, which include the Daily Bruin.)

Compared to other schools, the current fee is relatively nominal – especially considering the size and scope of ASUCLA.

The proposed increase would bring ASUCLA fees to $34.50 and would allow for additional increases to keep up with the rate of inflation. Consistently underfunding the operation would likely result in another budget crisis, like the recent one that skyrocketed fees to $51.00.

ASUCLA says it needs the money to deal with existing financial pressures and to expand their offerings. Declining textbook sales and expanded dining services on the Hill have hurt ASUCLA in recent years.

But there is also the potential to improve Ackerman Union. Increased student programming, higher wages and a liquor license are all possibilities.

Students who support these ideas and value campus life should support the fee increase. And if the increase is passed, ASUCLA should make sure the money goes toward services students care about.

Comments

Post a comment