Proposal puts Byrd Center under USF

The Johnnie Byrd Sr. Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute would fall under the control of the University of South Florida, but would enjoy participation from other state universities, under draft legislation the Buzz just saw. And USF's president would have much control in appointing leaders for the center, established amid much controversy when Johnnie Byrd Jr. was House Speaker.

That scenario is just what USF has been lobbying for, and USF officials called the early draft a "step in the right direction." The timing is good, too: USF President Judy Genshaft and medical school dean Stephen Klasko will be at the Capitol this afternoon, no doubt to push their cause.

SB1080 comes before the higher education committee tomorrow, Wednesday the 19th, at 9 a.m.