G

Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced his plan to cut $282 million in state spending Friday in order to balance Minnesota’s budget. Higher education was hit with a $50.3 million reduction – including a $25 million decrease in University funding.

University President Robert Bruininks said he was not surprised by the cuts, but voiced concern over the resulting $50 million reduction within one year. Last spring, the state forced the University to cut $23.6 million from its budget.

“There’s little question that these are very difficult reductions for us to take,” he said.

Late last month, Bruininks mandated institution-wide reductions in preparation for this cut. Those budget cutback plans are due Feb. 17.