The University of Nebraska would face another 3 percent cut in its budget if Gov. Mike Johanns’ proposed budget is approved by the Legislature.
Johanns announced his budget reduction plans at a news conference Thursday afternoon.
UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D., said the proposed cut would stymie the momentum that UNMC has gained over the past couple of years.
“Building and sustaining a quality university requires long-term commitment and investment,” Dr. Maurer said. “Higher education at the University of Nebraska should remain a top priority for the state.”
Legislators now will debate on how to trim the budget, which is forecast to fall $186 million under previous projections for the next biennium. On his wish list, the governor also outlined plans to cut business tax incentives, state aid to K-12 schools, and nearly every state agency.
During a special session late in 2001, the University of Nebraska took nearly $20 million in cuts. UNMC reduced its budget share by $2.2 million. That amount represents 1.98 percent of the total UNMC budget. With that decrease, Dr. Maurer said, about 16 faculty positions and 14 staff positions would be cut. Further budget cuts may result in more layoffs, Dr. Maurer said.
“Nebraskans deserve the best health-care treatment, and we want to help provide that through our research discoveries, education of professionals and outreach to the state. All of these would take major hits with additional budget reductions,” Dr. Maurer said. “One of the worst things you can do is damage your economic engine, and that is what we are. We create new jobs through our research enterprise and our educational mission. Cutting our budget will have a negative impact on the entire state.”