The Latest: University leader to advocate for veto override

By The Associated Press

JUNEAU, Alaska — The Latest on the Alaska governor’s budget vetoes (all times local):

2:30 p.m.

University of Alaska system President Jim Johnsen says he will advocate for legislators to override Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s veto of $130 million for the system.

The veto, coupled with a $5 million cut previously approved by lawmakers is in line with the level of cut Dunleavy proposed earlier this year.

Johnsen told reporters university officials took that threat seriously but he says there is “no way to rationally plan” for that level of cut.

If lawmakers fail to override the veto, he says he expects the Board of Regents will be asked to consider a declaration of financial exigency, which he says would allow officials to make reductions quickly. The system says it would allow for the reduction of staff and faculty with less process and notice.

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11:10 a.m.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy has slashed the budget for the University of Alaska system, vetoing more than $130 million in funding.

Dunleavy also has cut state support for public broadcasting and reduced spending for Medicaid.

The Republican governor also eliminated the Senior Benefits Program in vetoes announced Friday.

Dunleavy, in a letter to legislative leaders, says the budget “focuses on the state’s basic responsibilities while understanding our fiscal constraints.”

He says his actions have cut nearly half the state’s deficit and that more work is needed.

The Associated Press

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