Dear Members of the University Community:
Earlier today, Governor Gregoire submitted to the Legislature her 2009-2011 biennial budget proposal. As expected, it contains significant reductions for higher education as well as other state agencies, some of which will also negatively impact our medical centers. Obviously, the Governor faced an enormous challenge in putting together a budget during these historically difficult economic times. It is no easy task, to be sure. And while it is clear that she attempted to spread the pain, it nevertheless is substantial for the University.
The Governor has proposed a 13 percent cut in funding to the state’s 4-year colleges and universities for the upcoming biennium. For the UW, this would mean a reduction of $116 million for the biennium. This comes on top of the 4.25 percent reduction we have just taken this year. It is important to note, however, that the Governor’s budget proposal is just that–a proposal. We do not have a final biennial budget yet, nor do we know the amount by which we must reduce our budget. When we do, some months from now, we hope other sources of funding–including tuition and fees–will help mitigate the effects of these reductions on the University’s budget.