In-state tuition hikes on the way

Students in the state's public colleges shouldn't get too used to their tuition bills.

Although the state froze tuition in 2006 and 2007 - an accomplishment Gov. Martin O'Malley frequently cites in public forums - the thaw is coming next year, said House Speaker Michael E. Busch, D-Annapolis.

Against a backdrop of rising education costs and a $1.5 billion deficit, Mr. Busch and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr., D-Calvert, have been giving glimpses of what's going to curb the state's budget woes.

Mr. Miller has said the sales tax is likely to be raised, and Mr. Busch said the House will consider raising...