MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Another University of Wisconsin System school will offer employee buyouts to help cushion massive cuts looming in Republican Gov. Scott Walker’s budget. UW-Stout officials announced their plan Monday. Employees must be at least 55 years old before July 1, joined the school no later than July 1, 2010, and be eligible to receive an annuity through the state retirement system. Takers would receive a one-time payment equal to half their salary. The school estimates about 272 employees are eligible. Five other UW schools have announced similar buyout programs as they grapple with Walker’s plans to cut $300 million from the system. The cuts aren’t a done deal, however. The Legislature’s finance committee is revising Walker’s budget ahead of full votes in the Senate and Assembly early this summer.
