MU head given furlough authority

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- University of Missouri curators have given system president Gary Forsee the power to furlough campus workers should the economy continue to spiral downward.

That means Forsee could force employees to take time off without pay. He would still have to consult with curators first.

Forsee said no job cuts are planned at the university system's four campuses. He spoke Friday at the conclusion of a curators meeting.

Forsee's furlough authority runs through June 30.

The nine curators also approved Forsee's request to offer medical benefits and severance pay to any employees who may lose their jobs down the road.