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Make Mandatory Housing and Meal Plans Voluntary in the University of Louisiana System

We, the undersigned, urge the University of Louisiana System to eliminate mandatory meal plans and housing requirements for students. In an era where affordability and personal choice are paramount, it is essential that students have the freedom to make decisions that best suit their financial situations and personal preferences.

The current policy mandates that students residing on campus purchase meal plans, which can impose significant financial burdens. For many students, preparing their own meals allows for greater budget flexibility, as groceries often cost significantly less than the mandated meal plan fees. Similarly, on-campus housing costs tend to exceed those of off-campus options, and by removing mandatory housing requirements, students could access more affordable living arrangements that align better with their individual needs.

While the University of Louisiana System aims to create a supportive campus environment, one-size-fits-all policies do not accommodate the diverse circumstances of all students. Some students may have dietary restrictions, personal preferences, or financial constraints that make mandatory meal plans and housing less practical. Allowing students the choice to opt out of these requirements empowers them to take control of their own living and dining arrangements, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.

We call on University of Louisiana System President, Dr. Jim Henderson, to take immediate action to revise these policies. By making meal plans and on-campus housing optional, the university system will not only alleviate financial pressures on students but also affirm its commitment to their well-being and autonomy in a meaningful and practical way. This change is about respecting students’ rights to make choices that best fit their lives and ensuring that every member of the University of Louisiana System community feels supported and empowered.

Petition to Make Mandatory Housing and Meal Plans Voluntary for University of Louisiana System

We, the undersigned, urge the University of Louisiana System to eliminate mandatory meal plans and housing requirements for students. In an era where affordability and personal choice are paramount, it is essential that students have the freedom to make decisions that best suit their financial situations and personal preferences. The current policy mandates that students residing on campus purchase meal plans, which can impose significant financial burdens. For many students, preparing their own meals allows for greater budget flexibility, as groceries often cost significantly less than the mandated meal plan fees. Similarly, on-campus housing costs tend to exceed those of off-campus options, and by removing mandatory housing requirements, students could access more affordable living arrangements that align better with their individual needs. While the University of Louisiana System aims to create a supportive campus environment, one-size-fits-all policies do not accommodate the diverse circumstances of all students. Some students may have dietary restrictions, personal preferences, or financial constraints that make mandatory meal plans and housing less practical. Allowing students the choice to opt out of these requirements empowers them to take control of their own living and dining arrangements, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence. We call on University of Louisiana System President, Dr. Jim Henderson, to take immediate action to revise these policies. By making meal plans and on-campus housing optional, the university system will not only alleviate financial pressures on students but also affirm its commitment to their well-being and autonomy in a meaningful and practical way. This change is about respecting students' rights to make choices that best fit their lives and ensuring that every member of the University of Louisiana System community feels supported and empowered.

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