Dear MMI Monthly Readers,
On April 21, the Legislature's Appropriations Committee approved a state budget proposal for the next two fiscal years. That proposal is now under debate in the full Legislature. In the course of this debate and in light of revised revenue projections from the forecasting board, it has been suggested that the university make up to $30 million in additional cuts. This would bring the University's total cuts to approximately $80 million.
How would this affect MMI? Simply,
this would likely result in reduction of our services, increased waiting times, and cutbacks to our education and research activities.
I understand that these are turbulent financial times for our state, and that we will all have to share the burden. Yet, my deep personal belief is that the proposed budget cuts go too far, and are counterproductive and Draconian. My personal view is that:
1) In the current financial climate, the Legislature's Appropriations Committee budget proposal seems the most appropriate. This reduction of funds flow to the NU system is painful, but reasonable. Support the Appropriations Committee April 21st recommendation!
2) It is important that the University budget not be reduced more than the Appropriations Committee April 21st recommendation. Additional cuts would jeopardize the mission, quality and future of our amazing institutions and make it almost impossible to be competitive on the national and international stage.
However, I understand that some of you might have different views, yet we must be part of the same conversation. Should you have a strong view about the proposed budget, please, let your voice be heard! I strongly encourage you to share your support or opposition to the budget with your state senator as soon as possible. If you choose to do so, the critical time for contact is between now and by the end of the day on Tuesday, May 2.
Thank you very much for considering this course of action.
The very best,
Karoly Mirnics, M.D., Ph.D.
Director
The Munroe-Meyer Institute