High-tech bill advances despite funding doubts

A bill that would provide $14 million to develop high technology programs at the University of Utah and Utah State University won preliminary approval Thursday from the Senate even though the funding is still in question.

SB192 — the Science, Technology and Research project — sponsored by Sen. Al Mansell, R-Sandy, is seen as boosting Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s economic development efforts. The state is allowed to own stock in start-up corporations that stem from university research.

Mansell said he's not sure how much money lawmakers will be able to find for the programs before the session ends next Wednesday.

But the former Senate president asked that the bill be advanced despite the fact the buildings and other items called for in the bill for the two research campuses may not end up being funded.