Cross addresses Regents on budget


The Governor’s proposed biennial state budget offers new identity and opportunity for the University of Wisconsin System, UW System President Ray Cross told the Board of Regents Thursday. It also presents serious and significant challenges. Cross praised the public authority status – and, most important, a new dedicated funding source with the sales tax – but called the proposed $300 million cut in funding over the 2015-17 biennium “a serious and critical challenge.” Regent Mark Bradley said the Board has a duty to advocate for the best interests of public higher education by offering facts and analysis. Regent Tim Higgins reminded colleagues that lawmakers face an array of tough budget choices. “We have to work in a collaborative process to determine what works best for the citizens of Wisconsin,” he said. For a UW System news recap.