FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Thursday, January 21, 2016

Statement from CFT President Joshua Pechthalt

Clear Case for Prop 30 Renewal

“In his State of the State address delivered earlier today, Governor Jerry Brown spoke eloquently of California’s strengths and challenges in the coming year. He underscored the state’s significant fiscal gains following a period of deep economic recession, but did not shy away from directly addressing the growing disparity between the top 1 (and .1) percent and everyone else that threatens the California Dream. He spoke of the many recent improvements to the lives of Californians, especially in comparison with most other states, but also emphasized the unpredictable threat of future recessions. We applaud the governor’s measured and thoughtful message.

“Gov. Brown briefly gave credit to the positive impact that Proposition 30 has had on California’s fiscal stability and the resulting restoration of spending on public schools and community colleges. However, Prop 30’s expiration puts that progress and stability at risk. The governor’s own evidence clearly shows the necessity to extend the progressive income tax component of Prop 30, a modest obligation for the state’s wealthiest individuals but a significant source of revenue that benefits millions of students across California.

“The Governor concluded his remarks by stating that “California is still The Great Exception. We dare to do what others only dream of.” This sentiment and reality depend on maintaining and extending the sources of revenue that support them—especially given that, as Governor Brown indicated, our state’s economy is susceptible to downturns. The inevitability of a future recession makes Prop 30 essential to continued funding for education and to help stabilize the overall budget.”

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The California Federation of Teachers represents 120,000 education employees in public and private schools, from Head Start through the University of California. It is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO.