Bill Patton says the state Legislature needs to rearrange its priorities starting with education because the University receives the lowest percentage of funds among state-related schools.

Patton, who is running against Mike Radis for the Democratic nomination for the 77th District state representative, favors an open University budget because it could encourage the Legislature to increase funding.

"Any institution of this size will have some inefficiencies," he said. "Opening it is one way to deal with those."

If elected, Patton plans to make communication with student leaders a priority.

"One of the first things I intend to do is sit down with student leaders at University Park and Commonwealth Campuses to map out a lobbying effort for the undergraduate government this year and next year as well to provide continuity," he said.

"This is a specific area in which (Rep.) Lynn Herman has failed --he is not good at garnering support (for the University) because he does not deal with other legislators," he added.

Patton favors the challenge grant -- a proposal that would give more money to schools that keep annual tuition increases at less than $100 per student.

A fundamental change in the way legislation is passed is necessary, Patton said. Due to special interest groups, many other items less deserving than higher education get passed, he said.

Patton insists that he will not accept any money from lobbyists and plans to make it an issue against Herman if he defeats Radis in the Democratic primary April 28. Too often, he said, lobbyists dictate which bills get passed.

Lobbyist influence is part of a set of reforms to allow a challenger a better chance at victory, he said, adding that he thinks the rules are rigged to protect incumbents, and campaigns should be run on a level playing field.

He favors abortion rights, saying restrictions demean women. Pro-lifers assume abortion is an easy choice for women, but the decision is actually one of the most difficult they may make, he said.

"It is burdensome and cruel for the state to intervene," he said.

Patton has worked with the state Legislature, which he feels is relevant to the office of state representative. But he said he would not have any problems supporting Radis against Herman in the November general election.

The 27-year-old sees himself as more of an activist than a politician and thinks his youth is an asset. A University alumnus, Patton said he understands student problems.