DEKALB, Ill. (AP) — The head of Northern Illinois University says the school won’t layoff anyone for now despite the lack of state funding due to a budget impasse.
President Doug Baker made the comment Thursday during a rally organized to demand an end of stalemate between the governor and lawmakers.
The Daily Chronicle in DeKalb reports Baker noted the university has made several cutbacks because it hasn’t received any of the $64 million it expected in this fiscal year’s budget.
The lack of state funds has forced Eastern Illinois to lay off 200 workers, effective next month. Chicago State University trustees have declared a financial emergency to make it easier to lay off employees.
Baker said the funding problem isn’t just a few universities concerned about a little money, but is “about the viability of the institutions” and the state.
