UW Regents asking for additional $107 million in next budget

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — University of Wisconsin System regents have signed off on asking Gov. Scott Walker for an additional $107 million in the next state budget.

The regents approved the request 16-1 on Thursday. The request seeks an additional $82.5 million in tax dollars to meet performance-based goals Republican legislators have imposed on the system.

The system also wants an additional $25 million to help provide more access to high-demand programs in science, engineering, health care and business.

The request doesn't seek any tuition or across-the-board student fee increases.

Democrat Tony Evers, who is running for governor, was the only regent who voted against the request. He complained the request doesn't seek any money for raises.

System President Ray Cross said he plans to ask regents in December to approve a compensation increase request equal to twice the inflation rate. Evers said the board should make the request now.