New Mexico higher education institutions, including UNM, might face another reduction in budget following the introduction of Senate Bill 9 at the ongoing special legislative sessions held to address the state’s budget crisis.
The bill proposes a 5 percent cut in General Fund appropriations for colleges across the state. That amounts to an extra $9.5 million being cut from UNM’s budget, reducing the original amount of $190,700,000 passed in the spring to about $181,200,000.
The bill includes an emergency clause that states, “It is necessary for the public peace, health and safety that this act take effect immediately.
The Associated Students of UNM on Facebook notified students of the bill, which is expected to be voted on on Wednesday, stating that some legislators are considering an 8 percent cut for UNM. The Daily Lobo has yet to confirm this information.
ASUNM is also imploring students to contact local legislators requesting that UNM be treated fairly when it comes to budgetary discussions.
This is a developing story. Check back with the Daily Lobo for more.
