The University of Kentucky is extending a once mandatory tuition waiver program for employees attending other in-state public universities, despite a decision to axe the requirement by the 2018 General Assembly.
The legislature eliminated the program this year to allow public postsecondary institutions, which face 6.25 percent cuts over the next two years, greater financial leeway.
About 1,100 UK employees take classes at other Kentucky public institutions tuition-free, but with the state rolling back the requirement, UK President Eli Capilouto announced the school will continue its program for at least another three years.
Admission will be limited, however. Only those employees who have applied to specific programs at competing institutions or are already attending classes elsewhere take advantage of the perk.
Tuition waivers for UK employees attending classes at UK will not be affected.
Officials indicate the school is still analyzing the cost of extending the program and remains in talks with other schools about partnership agreements.
Roughly 200 employees who work for other public universities currently take courses at UK.
