Although the possibility of job cuts has been talked about since February, Chancellor Michael Martin is making sure people hear about it again.
Martin told WAFB Channel 9 today that unless “drastic” changes are made to the state’s plan for higher education funding, 1,900 jobs will be cut across the LSU System.
The System is expected to take a $102 million funding reduction for the fiscal year beginning July 1.
Martin said the cuts are looking more “realistic” as the Legislature enters its final weeks of session. LSU A&M in Baton Rouge will have to cut about 500 jobs if the projected cuts remain unchanged, he said.
Senate Bill 335, recently passed by the state Senate, could help. Sponsored by Sen. Lydia Jackson, D-Shreveport, the bill would delay a planned tax break in order to restore $118 million to higher education.
The state’s $27 billion budget for fiscal year 2009-10 has higher education taking a $219 million reduction in order to help make up for an expected $1.3 billion state revenue shortfall.
The bill is headed to the House of Representatives for vote, but strong opposition is expected. A majority of House members have signed a petition against the bill. Gov. Bobby Jindal said he would veto SB 335.The session ends June 25.—-Contact Kyle Bove at [email protected]