LINCOLN— The University of Nebraska is proposing a significant increase in state funding for the 2027-29 budget cycle, seeking about $91 million more in taxpayer support compared with its current annual budget. The proposal calls for a 4.25% increase in state appropriations each year, largely to keep pace with inflation and rising costs. NU is also requesting additional funding for biomedical research, scholarships for top ACT scorers, expanded research capacity and $55 million to replace aging university-wide administrative software.

The request comes as Nebraska faces a projected nearly $850 million budget deficit for the 2027-29 cycle and Gov. Jim Pillen pushes state agencies to reduce spending. Pillen argues NU should help address the state's financial challenges and provide measurable justification for additional funding. NU President Jeffrey Gold, however, says years of budget reductions have reached the point where further cuts could harm the university's teaching, research and economic contributions.

The proposal could face significant resistance in the Legislature. Appropriations Committee Chair Sen. Rob Clements called the requested increases unlikely to be fully approved, particularly while other state agencies are being asked to cut expenses. The NU Board of Regents will consider the proposal before it ultimately goes to state lawmakers, who will determine funding during the next budget process.

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