In a narrow decision at its meeting Tuesday, Student Government Association voted to strike down Bill 10-18-F, which called for the end of SGA funding to Interfraternity Council and Panhellenic Council organizations, following a lengthy session of debate.

The bill was authored by senator Amy Wyer and Committee for Diversity and Inclusion Chair Mark Clark. Wyer said she was motivated to create the bill after seeing how other universities’ SGA interacts with Greek organizations.

In her opening remarks, Wyer said at the University of Alabama, there is a coalition of IFC and Panhellenic Greek organizations called The Machine. Wyer also stated that since 1914, only one elected member of UA’s student government has not been a member of a Greek organization.

“I fear we have the potential to move in this direction,” said Wyer, who is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.

After opening statements, there was an extensive session of debate and discussion regarding the necessity of the bill and the impact it would have.

Alex Sargent was the first to speak. A former SGA senator, Sargent expressed his fears for the precedent the bill would set.

“I don’t like the idea of taking something from students who pay the same tuition as other students,” said Sargent, “but you’re gonna look them in the eyes and tell them that their social needs are not as important as another group’s.” 

Public Relations Chair Brigid Stakelum said he didn’t think SGA “should hand money to any Greek organization that walks through the door.”

A motion to table the discussion and vote of Bill 10-18-F was dismissed in a 21-14 vote. A two-thirds majority vote was needed to pass the motion.

After a call to question was made, the bill’s vote was taken and narrowly struck down with 16 in favor and 17 against.

In addition to discussion over the bill, a vacant Senator at Large position was filled by Student Body President Stephen Mayer’s nominee, Logan Hornback. Hornback was sworn in later that evening.

SGA meetings take place every Tuesday night at 5 p.m. in the Senate Chamber in Downing Student Union.