Deep cuts may force UNM tuition hike

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - An economist with the state's Legislative Finance Committee met with the University of New Mexico's Board of Regents this week and suggested nearly in $10 million cuts.

The LFC said that UNM could make up some of those losses by raising tuition.

High education could be hit hard when lawmakers convene for the legislative session in Santa Fe next week to cover the state's multi-million dollar budget deficit.

One proposal calls for steep tuition increases at universities and two-year colleges.

Included in the recommendation would be a two percent wage cut for all state employees, including teachers and professors.

The possible tuition hike would be six percent for in-state students, and 15 percent for out-of-state students.

For a student taking 12 credit hours, that would mean increase of more than $150 and nearly $1,300 for non-residents.

If passed by the Board of Regents , the tuition hike would take effect next fall.

Regent Don Chalmers said he hopes lawmakers do not cut too deep and force a tuition hike.

He said those on the New Mexico Lottery Success Scholarship would not be affected, but many others could be hit by the higher tuition.

"If we have to raise it by six percent, and they have to come back here, and maybe pay higher taxes because of the higher budget situation," Chalmers said. "That is going to discourage people from going to college."

The tuition hikes are just suggestions from the Legislative Finance Committee.

Ultimately, UNM will have to decide on cuts, a tuition hike or a combination of both.

The UNM Board of Regents will meet in March after the session to hammer out their budget. Then, they would possibly vote on whether or not to raise tuition.