Augusta delegation speaks out about possible cuts to university system

AUGUSTA, Ga. - The Augusta delegation is speaking out about possible cuts to the University System of Georgia.

Local leaders met at Augusta State University to answer questions students had regarding their future in education.

"I don't support any of these cuts; none of the delegation members do," said Georgia State Representative Gloria Frazier.

Augusta delegation members gathered to ease the minds of ASU and MCG students after possible cuts had them fired up.

"I just feel like people pride education so much but you're taking money from us learning and trying to better ourselves," said ASU student Alyscia Moore.

Unfortunately, the delegation says education and health care are usually the first to get slashed.

"You have to look at where the money is. It's in health care and education. So, of course they're going to be the two hardest hit," said Frazier.

Delegation members say they're going to do their best to protect students when they return to Atlanta.

"The General Assembly must find a way to balance the budget without destroying Georgia student dreams or college education," said State Representative Quincy Murphy.

Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue did announce he would not allow the huge cuts.

However, the state still has to find a way to save hundreds of millions of dollars.

"There have been a number of alternatives...that have been suggested. One of those is having an increase in tuition; I think that's possible," said Georgia State Senator Hardie Davis.

Other alternatives suggested at the conference were raising the cigarette tax or city taxes.

Right now, these leaders say nothing is certain, except their support for the university system.

"This is one of the vital organs to our state," said Frazier.

The Augusta delegation returns to Atlanta on Monday.

They say that's when they'll have a better understanding as to what may or may not be cut.

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