By Carrie Pond
Frankfort, KY – Kentucky House and Senate leaders appear generally pleased with Governor Steve Beshear's plan for addressing a one billion dollars shortfall in the state budget. The plan includes an across-the-board, two-point-six percent cut, except for basic school funding, higher education and Medicaid. Murray State University president Dr. Randy Dunn says the cut exemption is "heartening" and shows education is a priority for the governor.
"If he's able to have that supported by the General Assembly as they come together in special session later this month, Governor Beshear really can claim the title 'education governor.'"
Dunn says the exemption will allow the university to keep its head afloat during the next budget year despite imposed tuition caps. Governor Beshear says the call for the June 15th special session will only include budget matters, but other issues, like video slots may be added later.