WBRZ - Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE- LSU Interim System President William Jenkins says everyone must look for new ways to handle the ongoing budget crisis, and that includes the charity hospital system and regular campuses.

Jenkins made the comments during today's Press Club Luncheon in Baton Rouge. He said private partnerships will likely be needed to save some university hospitals, and new system-wide construction must help meet technology needs, such as by expanding the number of online courses.

According to Jenkins, state funding for LSU has been cut in half. He says that puts more pressure on students and families to cover higher tuition.

State budget cuts are scheduled for tomorrow, and Jenkins expects to be part of that process. He also claims lawmakers have shown a willingness to work through the issues.