A proposal advanced through a state house committee Monday that would, among other things, transfer the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee to New College. But the bill raised concerns from some Democrats. PCB HEB 26-01 would transfer facilities and properties from the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus to New College. But it would also mean that the school’s debt would be taken over by New College. The bill’s presenter, Republican Representative Demi Busatta, said that’s about $53 million. “We want to provide the best education possible right here in our backyard and that is what we are doing.” Rep. Busatta said. Democratic Representative Daryl Campbell joined others in questioning the move. “If this were a private transaction, the board would be sued for breach of duty before the ink dried.” Rep. Campbell said. Various representatives cited a report from the state’s DOGE department showing New College had the highest spending per student out of all state universities. ...