August 17, 2009

On Higher-Education Spending, the White House and Congress Agree, to a Point

On Higher-Education Spending, the White House and Congress Agree, to a Point 1

Scott J. Ferrell, Congressional Quarterly, Getty Images

David R. Obey, a Wisconsin Democrat who is chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, will have a say in how federal dollars for higher education are spent.

Enlarge Photo
close On Higher-Education Spending, the White House and Congress Agree, to a Point 1

Scott J. Ferrell, Congressional Quarterly, Getty Images

David R. Obey, a Wisconsin Democrat who is chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, will have a say in how federal dollars for higher education are spent.

By Kelly Field

Washington

With Democrats in control of both chambers of Congress, President Obama has generally gotten his way when it comes to federal funds for higher education. Spending bills making their way through the House of Representatives and Senate mostly mirror his budget plan for student aid and for colleges in the 2010 fiscal year, which starts on October 1.

But lawmakers haven't moved entirely in lockstep with the new president, particularly in the area of research spending (see

Digital or Print Subscription

Web Pass

Already have an account? Log In Now.