The Kansas Board of Regents is recommending a 4% increase in higher education funding, expressing fears about possible cuts during uncertain economic times.

The recommendation to add $33 million for the next fiscal year, which starts July 1, 2009, would include universities, community colleges and technical schools.

Regents vice president for finance and administration Diane Duffy said Wednesday she's "not sure anybody is clear about a forecast." A downturn in the economy has reduced state revenue below projections.

The proposal now goes to Gov. Kathleen Sebelius for review. Sebelius will unveil her state budget to lawmakers when the 2009 legislative session starts in January.