Budget crisis

The University of Texas at El Paso's budget, along with those of other universities in the state, could be cut by $1.7 billion due to the proposed state spending budget released  during the 82nd Texas Legislative Session.

The proposal reduces the current budget for higher education spending by 7.6 percent. This does not include funding for increased student enrollment, but it does scale back financial aid for entering freshmen at public universities.

"It's really frightening to think that the economic condition of the state is so bad right now. Most students here at UTEP and all throughout Texas public colleges and universities find themselves under some kind of financial aid program that helps pay for their education," said Cindy Almeda, sophomore geology major. "The fact that we currently have a slow economy and that there will be large money reductions is scary to think about and depressing."

It is because of this shortage of state funds that students may see a rise in tuition rates at public universities during the next couple of years.

"It is always difficult knowing there will be a shortage of money but the crucial thing that will be happening is an increase in tuition," said Gregory Rocha, associate professor of political science. "If students are going to receive this service (education), they are going to have to pay for it without relying too much on state money anymore."

Although the proposed budget, released by the Legislative Budget Board, has not been reviewed by the House Appropriations Committee, state Rep. Dee Margo said he would advocate for UTEP.

"I intend to advocate for UTEP to the best extent of my abilities, especially for the $100 million research building that will help the university attain tier-one status," Margo said.

Rocha also said despite these difficult economic times and the possible loss of funding, the top priority for UTEP should be holding on to what it already has.

"We want to make sure that our representatives represent us as much as possible and to the best of their effort, but right now what we want is to hold on to what we have and not lose it, especially when we know that the budget is going to be cut," Rocha said.

While the reduction of funds will impact the financial resources of universities, it may also limit students' opportunities.

"The economic conditions of the state and the cutting of the budget will limit students' opportunities to study since many will not be able to pay for their education," said Zaira Flores, junior pre-nursing major. "The increase in tuition can lead to a decline in higher education enrollment."

While it is still too early to know the exact impact the shortage of funds will create on student enrollment and financial aid at UTEP, Vice President for Business Affairs Cynthia Villa said the entire university will be affected.

"Right now it's hard to say if tuition will change or if student enrollment will change, we are too early in the process to know. However, if funds are cut, it's may be inevitable to raise tuition and it will affect the entire institution," Villa said.

UTEP's quest to become a tier-one institution may also be decelerated.

"The shortage of money will slow UTEP's momentum to become a tier-one university. Even though it will not affect our goals and our mission, it will slow the rate at which we achieve this status," Villa said.

The only alternative, is to analyze the situation critically and examining all possibilities when cutting the funds for higher education.

"Making sure to take a close look and being very meticulous at how we are going to cut the funds for higher education is essential," state Rep. Naomi Gonzalez said. "(We have to)analyze the situation carefully and see if it is in the best interest of the state to cut funds."

Diana Arrieta may be reached at prospector@utep.edu.