California’s largest teachers union voices strong opposition to the governor’s budget proposal, claiming it could result in devastating long-term effects on education.
California's largest teachers union is intensifying its opposition to Governor Gavin Newsom’s budget proposal, arguing that the plan will "wreak havoc" on school funding and jeopardise the future of public education in the state.
On Friday, the California Teachers Association (CTA) announced a public campaign aimed at blocking elements of Newsom’s budget strategy, which the union claims will lead to a loss of nearly $12 billion in education funding in the coming years, despite Newsom’s assurances that public schools would be shielded from immediate cuts.
While Newsom maintains that his complex accounting approach would protect schools from $8.8 billion in cuts, CTA President David Goldberg voiced strong concern, saying that this would result in a substantial long-term financial burden on school districts. Goldberg emphasized that if the campaign did not succeed in halting the plan, the union would not rule out legal action. "We will not stand by and let this happen," Goldberg stated, confirming that a lawsuit could be an option if the public campaign fails.
This marks a turning point in Newsom's political tenure, as he has largely avoided major disputes with core constituencies, including educators, in the past. The governor, who is often considered a potential presidential candidate, has been facing increasing challenges in addressing California's growing budget deficit, which is projected to be around $45 billion, with some estimates suggesting it could reach $55 billion.
The ongoing fiscal struggles have been exacerbated by a significant shortfall in tax revenue, with state collections falling 25% short of expectations in the 2022-23 fiscal year. The gap has led to a reassessment of how public education funds are allocated, with Newsom's administration arguing that the state only owed schools $67 billion, despite a previous budget allocation of $76 billion for the 2022-23 year.
In a bid to avoid massive layoffs and cuts, Newsom’s proposal allows schools to retain the excess funds but with the understanding that they will not be formally accounted for in the state’s budget until the 2025-26 fiscal year. Critics argue this strategy is misleading and financially irresponsible, with experts claiming that it could artificially inflate the state’s budget while burdening future budgets with the deferred costs.
Opponents, including Karen Getman, a school funding expert, warn that the plan undermines Proposition 98, the voter-approved formula that determines public education funding in California. By postponing the recognition of the $8.8 billion, the formula would be recalculated, potentially resulting in an additional $12 billion reduction in school budgets over the next two years.
Though Newsom defended his proposal as a temporary solution to avoid immediate disruptions, critics, including Kevin Gordon, a lobbyist for California school districts, believe the governor should focus on finding a more sustainable solution. Gordon suggested that Newsom negotiate with school districts to suspend the funding formula, allowing schools to recoup the funds over time.
The Legislative Analyst's Office has also expressed disapproval of Newsom's approach, describing it as "bad fiscal policy" that could lead to more difficult financial decisions down the line.
Despite the mounting opposition, Newsom stands by his proposal, arguing that it ensures the protection of public schools while addressing the state’s fiscal challenges. “We respectfully disagree with that position,” Newsom said in response to the criticism.
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The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields