No Longer Rich On Oil, Alaska May Slash Money To Universities: 'We Have A Lot To Lose'

The University of Alaska could lay off more than 1,000 and cut dozens of programs, thanks to a dramatic slash in money it gets from the state - a 41% cut from a line-item veto by Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy.

University officials say the $130 million cuts could prove disastrous for Alaska's future, endangering local economies, school employees and rural programs for Alaska Native students. They have pleaded with the Legislature to override the veto in a vote Wednesday but say they have little hope that will happen.

Higher education observers have been watching the fight in Alaska closely. To some, the budget cuts represent an attack on the value of college.

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