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Final Operating Budget Released — Best in Almost 20 Years

The final legislative operating budget was released today at noon.  For the University, the budget ended up almost precisely where is began almost four months ago.  State appropriations of $105 million represent the largest percentage increase in taxpayer support for the UW since the 1987-89 biennium. Together with revenue from tuition and other fees, the total budget increase will put the University on track to close our per student funding gap with other Global Challenge State peer institutions to the 50th percentile within 7 years and the 60th percentile within 8 years.

By the end of the day I will post a full summary of both the operating and capital budget proposals for the UW.  Action on both budgets is expected tomorrow, the final day of the 2007 legislative session.

In other news today, Governor Gregoire signed the UW’s request bill (SHB 2164) which will help to limit unwanted private development within the boundaries of the UW Tacoma master plan.  Regent Fred Kiga and Chancellor Pat Spakes were joined by several Tacoma area legislators including Sen. Debbie Regala, Sen. Marilyn Rassmussen, Rep. Steve Conway and Rep. Jeannie Darneille for the signing ceremony in the Governor’s Office.