Today, Gov. Tim Walz announced his budget recommendations for the upcoming biennium. His recommendations include a $39.2 million increase for the University of Minnesota’s base budget, as well as an additional $150 million in general obligation bonds for infrastructure repairs at the University.
Today, Gov. Tim Walz announced his budget recommendations for the upcoming biennium. His recommendations include a $39.2 million increase for the University of Minnesota’s base budget, as well as an additional $150 million in general obligation bonds for infrastructure repairs at the University.
In response, President Kaler issued the following statement:
“Gov. Tim Walz’s funding proposal for the University of Minnesota is appreciated tremendously, but will create challenges because it is less than what is needed.
“Our budget request this session is restrained, but deeply important. We are asking for an $87 million increase in state support for our biennial budget. This will help us fund core operations and address our highest priority needs, while keeping costs reasonable for students statewide across the University system.
“We are also deeply grateful for the governor’s proposed $150 million capital bonding investment. These dollars are critically needed to maintain our infrastructure statewide. These projects are necessary to provide safe, efficient, and modern teaching and research facilities that support all of our students, staff, and faculty.
“Our education outcomes fuel Minnesota’s highly trained workforce, our research breaks new ground and shapes the careers of tomorrow, and our commitment to outreach strengthens communities from Roseau to Rochester. I look forward to working with Gov. Walz and lawmakers to make the case that our funding request supports Minnesota, each and every day.”
The Minnesota House and Senate are expected to release their budget recommendations in late March or early April, followed by conference committee negotiations between the two chambers and continued discussions with the governor. Additionally, the upcoming February forecast may alter the projected revenue available for the biennium and necessitate the governor revising his budget recommendations. We will continue to provide information on this process in the weeks ahead.
For more information about the University’s legislative requests and how to get involved in advocacy at the Capitol, please visit our Government and Community Relations website.