Governor Haslam says the days of higher education cuts are likely coming to an end.
Representatives for some of Tennessee's largest employers met with Haslam Tuesday to explain what they need out of Tennessee's college graduates.
The governor says he'll use their insight to help figure out how to fund universities in a way that will allow them to meet the growing workforce needs of Tennessee companies.
It's part of the governor's ongoing focus on higher education.
"I think it is fair to say you are going to see a different type of focus on higher ed and the days where we diminish funding for higher ed I hope are over, because I don't think we can afford to do that anymore," he said.
The state does have a $500 million surplus this year. The governor didn't pledge to spend that on higher education.
Obviously, there are a lot of people vying for that money.
He does say there will be some changes in the budget, so look for those updates here on wbir.com in the coming weeks.