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Proposed compromise in SMS name change debate

House representatives want to be clear; the proposed SMS name change is not a grab for money.

Meghan Kloth has more from Jefferson City.

In response to critics, representative Mark Wright proposed a compromise in the name change debate.

Critics worry the name change would take money from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Wright's new bill sets limits on state funding for all universities.

"This is a good faith effort from a legislator who represents the SMS district right now to show this is not a money grab. This is about doing the right thing for the citizens of Missouri."

The proposed change would maintain funding gaps between state universities. The bill would prevent one school from getting an outrageous sum compared to other schools. From the state Capitol, I'm Meghan Kloth.

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Opponents of the SMS name change still aren't satisfied with proposed compromises. Meghan Kloth has more from Jefferson City.

Representative Mark Wright filed an additional bill regarding the name change from SMS to Missouri State University.

The bill clarifies the way state money would be distributed to universities.

But Columbia Senator Chuck Graham says the new bill still has not addressed all his concerns.

"It doesn't clarify everything I would like it to. For example, in terms of the graduate programs they would not duplicate, they do not include engineering. Engineering is one of the most expensive programs the state has to offer."

Graham opposed the name change when it was in the senate.

The new bill would cap the amount of money universities could receive.

From the state capitol, I'm Meghan Kloth.