Higher education: State colleges, universities trying to spare employees amid budget woes

Higher education institutions were spared the up to 10 percent cuts recommended by analysts but were dealt additional slashes to their budgets Thursday.

"This is a very humane and sound approach to budget reductions," said Utah Commissioner of Higher Education William Sederburg. "We support the governor's proposed budget, and we will continue working with him and the Legislature as the final budget is determined."

In addition to the 4 percent budget cuts already enforced earlier this year, higher education is asked to come up with another 1.5 percent for the current fiscal year. Next year, schools will be asked to cut 7 percent, although half of that should be refunded by one-time money. Each institution will examine determine where monies can be found to make up for the cuts.

Since 80 percent of most public college and university budgets are related to personnel costs, schools are struggling to make cuts without eliminating jobs.

Buildings with committed donations have the go-ahead to be built on campuses but those needing additional state funding will be halted.

The governor also issued a $7.4 million plan to help schools deal with increasing health insurance premiums for employees, leaving more money in the pockets of faculty, staff and employees.

— Wendy Leonard