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This article originally appeared in the September-October 2002 issue
of the Children's Advocate, published by Action Alliance for Children.
Special election coverage
Proposition 47
Kindergarten-University Public Education Facilities Bond Act
By Irene Moore
This measure would allow the state to issue $13.5 billion worth
of bonds to relieve overcrowded schools and repair older ones in K-12
systems, community colleges, and public universities. Funds would be spent
on:
Construction-$6.35 billion for new buildings, including about
$100 million for charter schools.
Modernization-$3.3 billion to modernize existing buildings.
Critically overcrowded schools-$1.7 billion for relieving districts
with overcrowded schools.
Joint use projects-$50 million for joint projects, such as a
building for a school district and library district.
Higher education-Specific projects for university campuses, community
colleges, and the California state library.
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Arguments for
"Investing in our children's future is one of the most important
investments the state can make to ensure California's economy stays healthy,"
says Michele Perrault of the California Chamber of Commerce. Supporters
say:
- This measure will reduce class sizes in overcrowded schools (sometimes
45 students in a classroom).
- The funds will fix leaky roofs, repair bathrooms, install heating
and air conditioning, and improve earthquake safety as well as wire
classrooms for the Internet.
- The measure provides for audits and cost controls.
Supporters include: California Teachers Association (650-697-1400),
PTA, League of Women Voters, California Chamber of Commerce, California
Business Roundtable
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Arguments against
"Because we've passed so many bonds in recent years, California
has been assigned the third lowest credit rating in country.We should
be extremely careful whenever we consider taking on more debt," says
the National Tax Limitation Committee. Opponents say:
- California has a growing debt and shouldn't sell more bonds, which
is a form of borrowing money.
- Schools with neediest kids aren't even obligated to begin building
schools for six-and-a-half years; they just need to state their "intent,"
which would tie up money.
- The Los Angeles Unified School District is eligible for over 30 percent
of new construction, though it accounts for only 12 percent of state's
student population.
Opponents include: National Tax Limitation Committee (916-444-8294),
Sen. William J. "Pete" Knight, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
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