MU budget revisions

The Kansas City Star

Elson Floyd's call for University of Missouri campuses to reduce administrative spending by 10 percent should earn political capital for the university system.

The system president's directive comes as some state lawmakers are looking at higher education as a target for more budget cuts. A voluntary show of fiscal restraint by the four-campus system might appease legislators who have accused universities of runaway spending.

Money cut from administration -- about $12 million -- will be used to fund academic programs and hold down tuition increases.

... Any talk of higher education financing should begin by acknowledging the value of strong universities to a state's economy and quality of life. Floyd has shown willingness to be a responsible partner. Lawmakers should do the same.