Higher education reacts to the veto of proposed budget

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Proposed cuts to higher education were a concern among some in the education community.

The lawmakers' proposed budget would have cut support for the state's colleges and universities.

The bill proposed almost $30 million in cuts to Marshall University and West Virginia University.

Now university and education leaders are weighing in on Governor Jim Justice's decision to veto.

West Virginia Education Association President Dale Lee said Justice did the right thing.

“It hurts public education. It hurts our seniors. It hurts veterans. Plus, when you take $90 million out of the Rainy Day Fund it hurts our bond rating,” Lee said.

WVU President Gordon Gee, also on hand at the capitol Thursday, said Justice has a commonsense vision for the state.

“He has a vision. He has a plan. Unless someone comes up with a better vision or a better plan let’s follow his lead,” Gee said.

WV-AARP State Director Gaylene Miller said Justice’s decision to use the manure prop wasn’t offensive.

“That’s just how the governor is. That’s what we’ve come to expect. He’s a homespun kind of guy and I think his honesty is refreshing,” Miller said.

West Virginia Chamber of Commerce President Steve Roberts said after the dust settles from Thursday’s veto he’s hopeful all sides can get together.

“My guess is the governor has a plan to try and let things cool down a little bit which probably isn’t a bad idea and then come back and say ‘where do we go from here,'” Roberts said.

A date hasn't been set for the special session.