UW regents approve request for $42.5 million in new funding

MADISON — The University of Wisconsin system's governing body has approved a request for $42.5 million in new funding.

The Wisconsin State Journal reports the regents on Thursday took the first step in what officials acknowledge will be a lengthy process that they hope will reverse years of declining state support.

The request now goes to Gov. Scott Walker. The governor has indicated he plans to provide some new performance-based funding for the university system, but has otherwise told UW and most state agencies not to expect more money in the budget he'll introduce next year.

The Regents approved the budget on a voice vote. Tony Evers cast the lone vote against it, saying the request would restore just 17 percent of the $250 million cut from the system last summer.