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School Services of California, Inc.
Community College Update
December 20, 1996
Copyright© 1996 by School Services of California, Inc.
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By The Way. . .

CTA Proposes Increase In Sales Tax. The California Teachers Association (CTA) is considering a ballot initiative that would enhance revenues for K-12 schools, community colleges, and the public four-year higher education institutions. CTA's proposed initiative (if approved by the voters) would raise approximately $3 billion in new revenues exclusively for K-16 public education by raising the state sales tax by 1%. It is the intent of CTA to qualify the measure for the November 1998 ballot. According to CTA representatives, language in the initiative would also stipulate that none of the new money could be used for administration. Management organizations have not yet commented on whether or not they will support CTA's efforts at this time. CTA is hoping to obtain the support of the education community by taking a comprehensive K-16 approach. Revenues raised by the measure would not be patterned after Proposition 98, which only includes K-12 schools and community colleges, but would be split 85% for K-12 and 15% for higher education.

It is unknown at this time what formula would be used to divide the 15% between community colleges, CSU and UC. Presumably, a division based on FTES within each system would benefit community colleges.

In an attempt to gage public support for an increase in the sales taxes that would be dedicated to public education, CTA conducted field polls. Although the results of those polls were not initially encouraging, it appears that CTA has not given up on the idea. CTA sources indicate that the proposal will be reviewed by the organization in January 1997 and a decision will be made regarding whether or not to pursue an initiative to increase the sales tax. SSC will keep you informed if the initiative moves forward.

[Posted 12/20/96]