Dallas Regional Chamber

This fall, Texans have an opportunity to vote for a constitutional amendment that can make a positive difference in both the state’s economy and in the quality of higher education available to its students.
Passage of Prop. 4, a constitutional amendment on the upcoming November 3rd ballot, can lead to millions of dollars in research grants for the seven emerging research universities across the state and provide a long-term economic boost to North Texas and the entire state.
Three North Texas universities would be eligible for these funds—the University of North Texas, the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of Texas at Dallas. The rest, as designated by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, are Texas Tech University, University of Houston, University of Texas at El Paso, and University of Texas at San Antonio.
By voting FOR Prop. 4, Texas voters will enable the establishment of the National Research University Fund (NRUF), a constitutionally dedicated fund available to seven state universities that meet specific legislative standards of excellence. Funds for NRUF will be transferred from an existing-but-dormant higher education account, thereby providing important support for these future research centers without new tax dollars or bonds.
Research programs will be the first aspect of these universities to benefit from this resource, but in the long run, academic programs, student success and the value of a degree from one of these universities will be enhanced.
For Texas’ local and state economies, the benefits are even more tangible. Economists estimate that every $10 million in research expenditures creates 334 new jobs, adds $8.6 million to the regional economy and generates $13.5 million in local sales.
The Texas Legislature has paved the way by unanimously placing this amendment to the Texas Constitution before state voters. Early voting begins October 19th.
The Dallas Regional Chamber strongly recommends passage of Proposition 4 on November 3.

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