The ongoing series of legislative sessions highlights two glaring problems.  One is the majority's adoption of the Federal model of refusing to deal with a bill unless a majority of the majority is of one mind.  No hearings, debates, or recorded votes to speak of so they can avoid going on the record.  The second is the manner in which conflicts of interest are handled by Legislative Rule, which is an invitation to repaying campaign contributors and the employers of those who hold jobs.  To negotiate solutions you need people at the table; that only occurs when the majority wants the minority to vote to raid savings.  Then look at what occurs:  The University system sustains significant cuts and the Trustees choose to preserve a Division 2 athletic program that principally provides the opportunity for athletes to travel Outside and to Europe, providing jobs to an athletic department, and few in-state events.  At the same time research and academic programs are cut and prof's leave.