Students asked Chancellor Michael Martin about looming budget cuts, environmental sustainability and even gun control at this morning’s “Chats with the Chancellor” in Free Speech Plaza.Martin assured the crowd of about 100 students who stopped by that the University is preparing for the projected $45 million reduction in state funding next year in every way possible. He said while some measures – like furloughing faculty, staff and administrators for five to 10 days – are not popular, they are better options than layoffs and will ultimately preserve the University’s quality in the long-run. Martin also asserted his commitment to keeping campus focused on environmental sustainability to both decrease energy costs and improve the environment. When a student asked Martin about his opinion on a recently filed bill that would allow licensed University students to carry concealed firearms on campus, Martin said he is against the bill. He said a fire arm – carried by a responsible, licensed University student – could end up in the wrong hands and be a danger to students. Martin will be answering student, faculty and staff questions about budget cuts today at 3 p.m. in the Bo Campbell Auditorium in the Cox Communications Building. ——Contact Kyle Bove at [email protected]