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University of Nebraska budget hearing is March 4
The Nebraska Legislature’s Appropriations Committee will hold a University of Nebraska budget hearing at 2:30 p.m. March 4 in the State Capitol, Room 1524.
The hearing, which is open to the public, allows the university to make a case for its two-year budget request as approved in August by the NU Board of Regents. Presenters representing the university will include Hank Bounds, NU president, and Tim Clare, chairman of the NU Board of Regents.
Gov. Pete Ricketts has recommended funding NU’s request for increases for salaries, benefits and health insurance. Utilities and other operational costs are not funded in the governor’s proposed budget. The university’s request, even if fully funded, would still require reductions and consideration of a tuition increase given that it does not cover all the institution’s core needs.
The Appropriations Committee will release its own proposal prior to agency hearings and potential revisions. The committee will then advance a final recommendation to the legislature for debate before a budget package is returned to the governor for his consideration.
“We’re looking forward to having a conversation with the committee about the vital role the University of Nebraska plays in educating the future workforce and creating economic growth in communities across our state,” Bounds said. “Our goal is to send a powerful message about how much Nebraskans care about their university and continued affordable excellence for our 52,000 students.
“I’m hopeful policymakers will find a way to make the university a priority for Nebraska.”
Legislative activities, including the hearing, are streamed live online via NET.
University of Nebraska supporters can also sign up to be an NU Advocate. Advocates receive regular updates about the university’s legislative priorities and tips on how to get involved.
The second annual “I Love NU” advocacy day is 9 a.m. to noon March 27 at the State Capitol. The event allows Nebraskans to show their support for the university and visit with state senators about higher education. More details about “I Love NU” day will be announced.
