Dear Colleagues,

My March message to the campus highlighted many of the budget challenges UC Riverside is facing. One of the primary concerns has been the 2025-2026 California state budget. 

On Wednesday, Governor Newsom issued his revised budget for the Legislature. The revised proposal offered an improved outlook for the University, reducing proposed cuts at a time when the state has faced many obstacles. 

This new proposal recommends an ongoing 3 percent cut, which is a significant improvement from the budget that was proposed in January.

Costs to the state have increased over the last few months. In light of these challenges, we are grateful for the confidence Governor Newsom has shown in the University with his latest budget revision.

Here is a statement issued by University of California President Michael V. Drake, M.D.

Once the Legislature concludes its work in June, and UCOP sends us information about our allocation and the president’s decision on salary increases, then we will be able to make decisions about the UCR budget for FY26.  Stay tuned.