NISG determines allocation of funds, approves campus events

The Northern Iowa Student Government Senate underwent three hours of debate and votes April 7, deliberating over a full docket of 10 pieces of legislation. 

Upon adjournment, two bills had been approved, with the remaining controversial items scheduled for a second reading next session. NISG approved a new student organization, authorized funds for an upcoming event and left bills including internal bylaw reforms, the NISG budget and further event appropriations to be decided April 14.

The senate unanimously approved the recognition of UNI TOMS Campus Team as a student organization. UNI TOMS seeks to educate students about podoconiosis, a disease of the lower leg caused by walking on unfit ground in developing nations.  The organization will work on raising funds for the cause by selling shoes.

Funding for the Progressive Picnic, a multi-student organization event to commemorate marriage equality in Iowa, was approved unanimously by the NISG Senate.  The event will be held April 22 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Campanile.

"The Progressive Picnic is an event hosted by One Iowa, UNI Proud, UNI Democrats, (UNI Freethinkers and Inquirers) and (Young Americans for Liberty)," stated Kristen Meyers, NISG senator and UNI Democrats president.

"The event is promoting awareness on campus about marriage equality in Iowa, as well as promoting different student groups on campus. This event is unique because we are having local, state and possibly nation(al) political figures speaking about this issue," explained Meyers.

The Progressive Picnic is open to all students and will feature free food, music and guest speakers.

Final approval of funds for the Panther Pick-Up, which enables students moving out of residence halls to contribute reusable items such as books, furniture and shoes to charitable organizations, will be determined at the senate meeting held April 14.