On May 14, 2021, UC Board of Regents Chair John A. Pérez and UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D., issued the following statement on Gov. Newsom’s revised 2021-22 budget:

The University of California is deeply grateful to Gov. Newsom for proposing the largest state investment in UC’s history: more than $807 million, which includes more than $506 million in ongoing funding for core campus operations, student needs and medical training. The budget, with the support of legislative leadership, reflects an earlier agreement to fully restore more than $300 million in budget reductions that were enacted in the 2020 state budget.

The allocation recognizes the university’s role as a key driver of California’s economic future. The governor’s proposed investment of more than $300 million in one-time funding would support critical upgrades and the expansion and development of energy efficiency projects across our campuses. These slated investments in deferred maintenance and capital projects will improve student learning and maintain UC’s role as a leading system of higher education worldwide.

The governor’s proposal recognizes University of California Health’s leading role in the state’s response to the pandemic by offering additional support to UC programs that expand access to health care in underserved and geographically isolated communities and that foster diversity through the UC PRIME program. The budget also proposes vital increased funding for student mental health support and technology assistance on our campuses.

In addition, California public higher education institutions would have access to $4 billion in state grants for affordable student housing over the next two years. This proposed investment in affordability demonstrates the governor’s commitment to students and families.

We thank Gov. Newsom for his strong commitment to UC as well as to higher education. We also look forward to working with the Legislature to identify additional funding for ongoing priorities, including closing graduation equity gaps, expanding online education, and supporting undocumented students and foster youth. In addition, the University hopes for additional one-time funds to support high-priority capital and infrastructure projects across our campuses.

We look forward to continuing to collaborate closely with Gov. Newsom and with the Legislature to secure these critical resources in support of our students, UC research and innovation, and quality health care for even more Californians.

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