The latest increase has been expected ever since the possibility of tax extensions disappeared along with a potential budget deal. But that didn't stop incoming UCLA transfer student Joseph Silva from showing up at the board meeting to object.
Silva: "These hikes hurt middle-class income people like me, who - our families make some money, but just don't have enough to pay for all of college. So I'm working during the summer to try to save up for school, and I'm gonna continue working during school."
But most regents, like attorney George Kieffer, say they have no choice.
Kiefer: "I think the message is really to the legislature: Your decisions on the budget have raised student fees. Don't pretend. Don't hide. You've done it."
This is the second increase for the fall semester, on top of a previous eight percent hike. And another increase could be necessary if state revenue projections fall short. Regents put off that decision for a few months.
