Gov asks schools to limit tuition hikes

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell is asking Virginia's public colleges and universities to limit tuition increases.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that McDonnell made the request in a letter sent last week to school presidents and board members.

McDonnell wants tuition hikes to be limited to the increase in the consumer price index. He says dramatic tuition increases would deter qualified Virginians from getting a college education.

The U.S. Labor Department says the consumer price index rose 0.3 percent in March, compared to 0.4 percent in February.

Inflation has eased since last fall and is expected to stay tame. In 12 months that ended in March, prices rose 2.7 percent. That's below last year's peak year-over-year rate of 3.9 percent.