Hefty tuition increases recommended by the state’s three largest public universities were approved last week by the Kansas Board of Regents, but at least that approval was tempered by some dissenting votes and some discussion about how rapidly tuition at state universities has risen in recent years.

Smaller tuition increases were approved unanimously at the three smaller state universities: 4.1 percent at Fort Hays State University, 5.6 percent at Pittsburg State University and 6 percent at Emporia State University.

A few regents balked, however, at larger percentage increases sought by the three largest universities: 7.4 percent at Kansas State University, 7.7 percent at Wichita State University and 8.2 percent in standard tuition at Kansas University. The four-year guaranteed “compact” tuition rate at KU will rise by 6.4 percent.

A 6.9 percent tuition increase at KU Medical Center was approved unanimously, but the rest of the rates at KU, KSU and WSU were approved on split votes. Three of the nine regents voted against KU’s standard tuition increase, and two opposed the compact tuition increase.

Gary Sherrer, who was elected chairman of the regents on Thursday, voted against both. Tuition costs have been rising too rapidly in the last decade, he said. “I feel deeply that our six universities should be available for those with academic talent, not just people with money,” he added.

We agree.

University officials were quick to make excuses for the large tuition increases they sought this year. State funding cuts decimated their budgets. The universities have to maintain the quality of their programs, and student representatives have indicated they are willing to pay more to protect that quality. And, of course, the perennial KU favorite that KU still is “a bargain,” compared to other similar universities.

Unfortunately, the people paying the tuition bills can’t take any of those excuses to the bank. Many of them are out there struggling and taking out loans, trying to make higher education possible for themselves or their children.

Everyone understands it’s been a difficult year for state universities, but if Fort Hays can figure out a way to tighten its belt and get along with a 4.1 percent tuition increase, why does KU need an 8.2 percent raise?

Congratulations to the Board of Regents members who are at least asking that question. Perhaps some year, they will be willing to simply say “no” to what they — and many Kansans — see as unreasonable tuition increases.