Governor Polis announces $22.1 million increase for higher education budget despite cuts

In a pivotal Joint Budget Committee meeting on August 28, 2025, Colorado Governor Jared Polis addressed the challenges facing higher education funding amid necessary budget cuts. Despite a $22.1 million increase in the current budget year compared to last year, the governor acknowledged that institutions would still face significant adjustments due to cuts that amount to about one-third of the anticipated increase.

Governor Polis emphasized the importance of balancing the budget while protecting K-12 education, stating, "the more things you exempt, then the greater the cuts have to be." He noted that while the cuts to higher education are relatively small, they are not easy for institutions to absorb, especially mid-semester. The governor reassured that discussions with higher education leaders would continue to ensure clarity and understanding of the changes.

Budget Director Mark Ferandino also highlighted the importance of communication with governing boards, confirming that meetings had taken place with college presidents and CFOs to discuss the cuts. He expressed appreciation for the approach taken to implement cuts through a formula rather than arbitrarily selecting institutions, which helped mitigate the impact on specific schools.

As the committee continues to navigate these financial challenges, the focus remains on maintaining educational quality while addressing the state's budgetary constraints. The discussions signal a critical moment for Colorado's higher education system as it adapts to the evolving fiscal landscape.