Contact: Monty Jones, (512) 499-4363

Date: January 17, 2003

Statement by Mark G. Yudof, Chancellor

Governor Perry has invited state agencies including those in higher education to demonstrate to him and to the legislature the appropriate levels to sustain their functions in a time of extraordinary economic and fiscal difficulties for the State. Rather than responding solely to past spending trends and practices and imposing the blunt axe of arbitrary reductions he has challenged us all to do our share and present a defensible, sensible budget to the legislature to meet those challenges. We look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature in working together to assure the maintenance of a strong infrastructure as well as delivery of essential and vital education, research and health care services to the State that will see us through these tough times.