Gov. Bobby Jindal outlined Thursday what he called a “leaner and smarter” state budget, which he said will put a high priority on higher education in the state.
Jindal said the difference between state, federal and self-generated funds for higher education “absolutely no reduction” between fiscal year 2010-11 and 2011-12.
Jindal emphasized that funds for higher education could increase by about another $98 million if legislation he proposed several weeks back passes.
Jindal highlighted five main points in his fiscal year 2011-12 budget proposal: taxes won’t be raised, and Jindal will veto any attempt to do so; higher education will receive more protection; K-12 education will receive more protection; there are no major proposals to cut health care funding; and the budget will feature a reduction in one-time funds.
Jindal said the overall budget will come in around $24.9 billion, or $1.1 billion less — 4.3 percent — than fiscal year 2010-11.
Jindal only outlined his proposed budget Thursday. The full budget will be presented to the state Legislature on Friday.
 
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Contact Robert Stewart at [email protected]