Wisconsin and Virginia have begun conversations about privatizing flagship public universities. Now, Illinois is about to have the discussion. Bloomington Republican State Senator Bill Brady has introduced a bill to privatize Illinois' public universities over six years.
Brady notes that the state also supports needy students at private institutions and it's possible the state would increase that kind of aid. Brady says operating costs on campuses might fall if state procurement rules and other mandates were to be lifted.
Education policy experts say such privatization might create a multi tiered tuition approach with higher sticker prices that get reduced for the neediest students.
Brady says it's possible universities would be able to make a more effective argument to alumni and other potential contributors that donations are necessary if they were privately held.
A number of states are having conversations about privatizing higher ed
Brady says he doubts he'll call his bill this year but wants public debate on the measure.
