House approves transfer of USF Sarasota‑Manatee facilities to New College; floor divides on cost and efficiency

The Florida House on Feb. 19 passed HB 5601, which transfers specified facilities, property and related debt from the University of South FloridaSarasota‑Manatee campus to New College of Florida.

Representative Bousada, the bill sponsor, said the transfer aligns governance with local geography and preserves access for existing students: "USF would continue to maintain those same programs through the time that USF students ... would be finishing the program," she said on the floor.

Opponents warned the move hands high‑cost facilities and associated state support to an institution with far fewer enrolled students and a higher per‑student operating cost in recent analyses. Floor speakers cited data showing New College's reported per‑student cost and questioned whether transferring facilities and nearly $23 million in state funding is fiscally wise.

The House approved HB 5601 by recorded vote, 76 yeas to 28 nays. Supporters said the measure clarifies governance and protects students currently enrolled at the campus; critics urged further study and consultation with the affected university communities.

What comes next: The bill will proceed through the Senate and, if enacted, will require administrative steps to transfer facilities, debt and program responsibilities while preserving current students' ability to complete their studies.