MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Scott Walker today released his proposed 2013-15 biennial state budget, which calls for more than $181 million in new taxpayer investments in the University of Wisconsin System.
| Major Budget Provisions | Biennial GPR |
| Incentive Grant Fund for new UW initiatives that boost economic development and workforce development | $20 million |
| Startup funding to launch innovative UW Flexible Option degree programs | $2 million |
| Funding to preserve and expand access and quality in the UW System, provided in a flexible “block grant” | $89.4 million |
| Full funding of ongoing fringe benefits, facility leases, and normal inflationary costs | $20.8 million |
| Debt service funding for previously approved UWconstruction and renovation projects | $42.4 million |
| Funds to expand the Wisconsin Academy for Rural Medicine (WARM) and Training in Urban Medicine and Public Health (TRIUMPH) programs at UW-Madison’s School of Medicine and Public Health | $3 million |
| One-time aid for UW Carbone Cancer Center at the UW Hospitals and Clinics, to accelerate development of molecular imaging technology | $3.75 million |
| TOTAL GENERAL PURPOSE REVENUE (GPR): | $181.35 million |
UW System leaders praised the move to reinvest in higher education.
“Governor Walker recognizes and appreciates the role that UW institutions play in boosting our state’s economy. Job creation and workforce development are top priorities for everyone, including the UW System. We look forward to working with all Legislators from both parties to advance this budget,” said UW System President Kevin P. Reilly.
“In an era when innovation fuels the state’s economy, investments in the UW System will produce powerful returns for taxpayers. UW campuses will leverage the Incentive Grant Fund to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students, and support growing industries such as energy storage, aeronautics, and water technology,” said Brent Smith, President of the UW System Board of Regents.
“This support from the state will help UW strengthen the workforce, by preparing students for careers in business, healthcare, science, and engineering. Funding for the UW Flexible Option will help working adults complete their college degrees in a more convenient, affordable manner,” said Michael Falbo, Vice President of the UW System Board of Regents.
“Investing in our colleges, universities, and extension networks is an investment in the Wisconsin Idea – our ability to serve citizens in every corner of the state,” said Reilly.