2 are left to study tuition tax credits

One of three professors researching the effects of tuition tax credits has been released of the duty over bias concerns.

Joe Garrett Baker, professor of managerial economics at Southern Utah University, was removed because he apparently had penned newspaper editorials supporting tuition tax credits, said Mike Christensen, director of the state Office of Legislative Research and General Council.

Legislative leaders from both houses and parties made the decision this week, Christensen said. Concerns about Baker were voiced by House Minority Leader Brent Goodfellow, D-West Valley.

Neither Baker nor Goodfellow could be reached for comment Wednesday.

The remaining two researchers, both from Utah State University, are: Chris Fawson, associate professor of economics; and Roberta Herzberg, associate professor of political science.

Fawson is a member of the Board of Scholars for the Sutherland Institute, which has lobbied for tuition tax credits. While the board apparently reviews work or provides assistance, Fawson "has never done anything for the Sutherland Institute in relation to tuition tax credits," Christensen said.

Tuition tax credits are a polarizing issue on Capitol Hill. Supporters say the tax break would encourage parental choice and private investment in education, free up state resources and ease overcrowding in schools. Opponents say the tax credits would drain education dollars, as all Utah income tax revenues go to schools and colleges.

Lawmakers this year set aside $150,000 for an unbiased study on potential effects of tuition tax credits. They hope the study, due in November, will inspire informed debate on the issue. The USU research team was selected last month.

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