By Dave Thompson

BISMARCK, N.D. (Prairie Public News) – The state Senate has voted to expand the higher education “challenge grant” program to students who attend the two private universities in North Dakota.

It would affect students who choose University of Mary in Bismarck, and the University of Jamestown.

The challenge grants require the institutions to raise money, and the state matches it. For every $2 the institutions’ foundations raise, the state will match it with $1. The bill has a $20 million cap.

The amendment was offered by Jamestown Republican Senator Terry Wanzek.

Senators who opposed the amendment said the state has had a long standing policy of state dollars going to state institutions. Minot Republican Senator Karen Krebsbach.

The amendment passed 24 to 23. And the full bill passed 29 to 18.

Barring reconsideration, the measure goes to the House.