SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- With the economy forcing so many industries to turn to the federal government for help, some California lawmakers are suggesting higher education do the same. A resolution being introduced in the new legislative session today proposes a $70 billion nationwide bailout for colleges and universities.
KCBS’ Holly Quan Reports
California isn't the only state facing massive budget cuts but its community colleges could lose $330 million, while the CSU and UCs lose $66 million each. All while banks and car companies are marching to Capitol Hill hat in hand.
"In that policy discussion of who should be bailed out, and who should be invested in, we think our kids warrant the same consideration as auto makers and financial institutions, and those folks who largely have been shepherding their own outcomes," said Pasadena Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, who chairs the Higher Education Committee.
He says with just 10 percent of the $700 billion financial bailout, two million California students could go to college.
"The California delegation in Congress is gaining influence, we have an exciting new vibrant president who is also making higher education a top priority," said Portantino. "I think it's a golden opportunity to say that the legislature is united in a bipartisan way to invest in our kids. I think it's going to carry a lot of weight with the California delegation, which in turn carries a lot of weight in Washington."
(MGO)
