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Proposition 30: Impacting the Future of CSU

The November 6, 2012, ballot has several propositions before the voters, but one will directly impact the California State University (CSU).

Proposition 30 is Governor Jerry Brown’s initiative that would increase state revenues for K-12 schools and community colleges. If passed by the voters this November, it would temporarily increase personal income tax rates for seven years on individuals who make more than $250,000 and sales tax by ¼ cent for four years; raising between $6.8 billion and $9 billion in 2012-13 and $5.4 billion to $7.6 billion annually through 2018 (estimates from the Legislative Analyst’s Office and Department of Finance). The measure would also complete the realignment agreement reached by the Governor and local governments by guaranteeing funds for public safety services shifted from the state to local governments.

If Proposition 30 passes, the additional revenue for K-12 schools and community colleges would help the state meet its obligations to these entities, as well as help the state address its on-going structural deficit. By addressing the state’s budget gap, it is possible the CSU budget would be less likely to be cut and provides an opportunity for the CSU budget to be increased in future years. However, if Proposition 30 fails, the immediate impact to the CSU would be an additional budget cut of $250 million at a minimum, as specified in the signed 2012-13 state budget.

If the budget trigger is pulled, it would equate to a total loss of state funding for the CSU of nearly $1.2 billion or nearly 40 percent since 2007-08. An additional budget cut, would require more difficult budget decisions with tough consequences for students, faculty and staff. Choices that the CSU Board of Trustees are currently considering if this eventuality occurs include:

  • Systemwide reductions in pay and/or benefits for faculty, staff and administrators
  • Further limits on enrollment and commensurate reduction in employees
  • Student tuition fee increases (potentially $150 per semester)
  • Reductions in faculty assigned time and release time (sabbaticals)

More information on Proposition 30 can be found at the California Legislative Analyst’s Office or by the following links:

Support

Supporters of Proposition 30 have created a website, which can be found at:

Opposition

Opponents of Proposition 30 have created a website, which can be found at:

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